Getting a speeding ticket in Columbia, Missouri is very frustrating, especially when you are in hurry due to an emergency cause. Traffic rules are very strict, and fines are higher in Missouri State. In reality, no matter the reason behind getting a speeding ticket, having any record of such infractions can be bad for you in various ways in addition to paying fines. A couple of them include having points to your driver’s license and an increase in the premium of your automobile insurance.
However, if you handle this problem the right way, you can get your speeding ticket even dismissed. While it is extremely difficult or even impossible to do it yourself, you might have a better chance at getting the speeding ticket dismissed if you hire an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Missouri.
By now, you might be curious to know the reasons that can get a speeding ticket dismissed in Columbia or anywhere in Missouri. So, let’s find out.
The absence of the police officer
The first and foremost reason for the dismissal of a speeding ticket is when you appear in the court to fight the ticket but the police officer who issued you the speeding ticket doesn’t show up. However, many courts require two or more “no-shows” before dismissing the ticket.
According to the Sixth Amendment of the US Constitution, you have the right to challenge your accuser. In this case, the officer would be the only witness. Thus, his/her absence implies that there is no one to fight your speeding ticket and also that your constitutional right has been violated.
A mistake is made by the police officer
If a police officer makes a mistake during the trial, such as providing inconsistent testimony or not providing information that is important for your case, the judge may decide to dismiss the ticket. Therefore, it is very critical to listening to what the police officer says and takes notes. It allows you to single out the potential inconsistencies. If necessary, you can also demand to see the notes taken by the police officer.
Inaccurate information on the ticket
When a police officer records inaccurate information on your ticket, it can be the ground for ticket dismissal. Some examples of such mistakes include:
· Incorrect driver’s license,
· Inaccurate license plate number
· Incorrect date
· Wrong vehicle code section
The ticket might be dismissed due to some other errors regarding the vehicle’s make, model, color, speed, or the location where the offense allegedly occurred.
Speed Measured by the Faulty Equipment
If you can prove that the equipment used to detect the speed of the vehicle was faulty, it can also get your ticket dismissed. However, proving this is often difficult. So, when you get a speeding ticket, read it carefully. If the officer says he/she has stopped your car with radar detection and you find the radar space empty, don’t forget to bring this issue to court.
It’s your first time!
Yes, if it is your first time and you are lucky enough to fight your ticket in front of a sympathetic judge, there are chances that your ticket may be dismissed.
In short, you can get your speeding ticket dismissed if you know where to look and what to ask. Also, note that it is not always possible to do this because each case is different. If you want to keep your record as clean as possible, getting in touch with a competent lawyer in Columbia would be the wise decision.