Ever get nervous every time you notice flashing lights in the rearview? It happened to every driver. It frightens you to get pulled over for speeding, but understanding what you are owed will reassure you. In this article, we inform you about what you are owed and what you are not when you are pulled over for speeding in Kansas City.
What happens when I get pulled over?
You will be pulled over by a police officer. Signal, slow down, and pull over in a safe location. Turn off your vehicle. Roll down the window. Keep your hands out in the open. Remain calm. Take a breath. You don’t need to say anything more than you absolutely must. Be respectful and firm. The officer is going to request your license, insurance, and registration. Give them to him one by one. Don’t even twitch a muscle unless he tells you to move. You may be requested by the officer if you know why you were stopped or not. You do not have to confess. You can refuse by saying, “I choose not to answer.” When you get a ticket, they will ask you to sign it. Signing is not a confession. You’re just admitting that you received the ticket.
Your Right to Remain Silent
You never have to answer any questions that would hurt your case. You may remain silent until you provide your name and documents. When the officer attempts to have you admit to speeding, again inform him you will not reply. Remain calm and be polite. Yell never or refuse. If you are being treated unjustly, note the badge number and make a complaint letter.
Can Police Search Your Vehicle?
Police can only search your vehicle in the following circumstances:
- You consent to it.
- They see something contraband in clear view.
- They have a valid suspicion that they have incriminating evidence.
- They take you into custody and do an inventory search.
You can tell them, “I do not agree to a search.” This may prevent an illegal search. If they do search, don’t resist. You can complain later at trial.
What Are the Penalties for Speeding in Kansas City
There is a fee for speeding tickets. You can have points taken off your driver record as well. Points will increase insurance rates. Missouri speeding tickets are 2 or 3 points. Having too many points in too short a time can lead to your license being suspended. If you were going much faster than the limit, you could be charged with reckless driving. That’s a worse offense and can mean bigger fines or even time in jail.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
A skilled and affordable Kansas City traffic lawyer can review your ticket and find defects. Maybe the officer made a mistake. Maybe the radar gun malfunctioned.
A lawyer can:
- Try to downgrade your ticket.
- Avoid points from showing up on your record.
- Have someone represent you, if possible, in court.
Most folks think that paying the fine is sufficient. However, you can have increased insurance premiums and points you’ll have to bear for years.
What to Do When You Are Stopped for Exceeding Speed
- Review your ticket. Ensure that it is okay.
- Record what occurred. Document the time, where you were at the time, and what the police officer told you to do.
- Photograph the location if you feel that the speed limit signs were covered.
- Call a traffic attorney.
- Determine if you will contest the ticket or just pay the fine.
Do You Have to Appear in Court?
You can’t. On most low-level speeding tickets, you just pay online or by mail. But to contest it, you must appear in court. Your attorney will do it for you. It’s a time- and hassle-saver.
Can You Get the Ticket Off Your Record?
Yes, sometimes. A lawyer can negotiate a plea. You can be fined but not receive points. Occasionally you can take a driving class and have a clean record.
Fallacies in Common Speeding Stops
Myth 1: If you don’t sign the ticket, it won’t count.
Reality: Signing is just an affirmation that you received the ticket.
Myth 2: Radar guns are foolproof.
Reality: They will give incorrect readings if misused.
Myth 3: Police can search your vehicle.
Reality: You don’t have to let them unless they have a reason.
Your Rights Matter
Understanding your rights gives you the power to make the best choices. You can stay silent. You can refuse a search. You can ask for a lawyer. Traffic tickets may not be a problem now, but they will catch up with you someday. You would have an attorney by your side and clean your record.
How to Get the Best Traffic Lawyer in Kansas City
Find a traffic attorney at Kansas. Ask for reviews and review previous results. Tell them if they have free consultations. Make sure you feel at ease with your attorney. Good communication is important. You prefer someone to tell you and answer questions.
When to Hire an Attorney Right Away
Contact a lawyer if:
- You received a reckless driving ticket.
- You have a blemish on your driving record.
- You are employed and need a clean record.
- You think that you were stopped unfairly or illegally.
Final Thoughts
Speed stoppers are normal, but rights are still yours. Utilize them in your favor. Remain calm and keep your cool and call an experienced dui attorney in Kansas City.
FAQs
1. Am I allowed to not answer questions when stopped for traffic?
Yes. You are free to remain silent except to give your name, license, and insurance. Refuse to answer questions politely without an attorney.
2. Do I have to let the police search my car if they wish to?
No. Say, “I do not agree to a search.” Only let them search you when they have a warrant, notice of evidence, or arrest you.
3. Will my insurance premium increase for receiving a speeding ticket?
Yes. Tickets usually increase the price. Points remain on your record and can cost you down the line.
4. Will my lawyer throw out my ticket?
Maybe. A lawyer can identify errors or resolve cases. Each case is unique, and therefore each result is unique.
5. What do I do the moment after I am pulled over for speeding?
Breathe. Note things. Photograph it if you need to. Look for errors on your ticket. Call a traffic attorney to discuss your options.
