Challenging a Speeding Ticket When You Were Not Speeding and the Fine Lists a Different Car

Introduction

Speeding tickets issued remotely by cameras can sometimes be controversial. If you receive such a ticket and are certain you were not speeding or driving the listed vehicle, here are key steps to take to dispute the ticket effectively.

Steps to Challenge a Speeding Ticket

Review the Ticket Information

Upon receiving the speeding ticket, carefully review the information provided. The ticket should include details on how to contest or dispute the fine. If you have already paid the ticket, it might be too late for a formal dispute, but you should still document the situation and consider the options for future incidents.

Save and Present Your Dashcam Video

Save the dashcam video of your trip and bring it to court as evidence. Your dashcam footage can be crucial in proving your case. Show the video to the judge, starting a few minutes before the encounter with the police to demonstrate that you were not slowing down just because the cop was there. Ensure the footage is clear and relevant to your argument.

Question the Law Enforcement Officer

When appearing in court, ask the police officer how they determined you were speeding. If they used radar, find out the last time the radar device was calibrated. This calibration is critical to the reliability of the speed measurement. If the device has not been calibrated recently or properly, it could be inaccurate.

Prepare for Court

The court will often provide a set date for your hearing. You may be able to appear telephonically, but follow the instructions on the citation carefully. File your dispute with the court via mail or email, and consult the traffic court clerk for detailed filing instructions.

Prepare Your Evidence

Bring any registration documents, online driver's record prints (available on motor vehicle websites for a small fee or free), and any titles. You can also bring affidavits, witnesses, and photos to prove that the captured vehicle was not the one you were driving or that the license plate was incorrect. Focus on any discrepancies in the citation that are not minor.

If the discrepancy is significant, such as a misspelled name, you are likely to have a strong case in front of a reasonable judge, provided you can effectively challenge the presumption that you are guilty. Remember, you need to present a well-prepared and structured argument to win the case.

Conclusion

Fighting a speeding ticket can be a daunting task, especially when the situation involves confusion about your vehicle or intentions. By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can increase your chances of success in court. Good luck with your case!

Keywords: speeding ticket, remote camera, contesting traffic fine