Traffic tickets are a real pain in the bum for any of the drivers among us, and – rightly so, some might say – have caused parking wardens to become an almost universally hated profession.
When you are desperately scrabbling for a parking space – any parking space! – during the Monday morning rush to work, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you’re going to receive a parking ticket for doing so.
And many a good day has been ruined by the unwelcome arrival of one of those nasty envelopes, just lying on your porch floor, telling you that you’ve broken the speed limit and have to pay up or go to court.
And as for the hole they leave in your back pocket – well, the less said about that, the better! We’re always looking for ways to lower the cost of a parking ticket or speeding fine, and we’re sure you are exactly the same. Here are some of the tips we’ve garnered over the years; hopefully, they can save you a bob or two!
The Best Offence Is a Good Defence
Obviously, the best way to avoid getting fined for your driving offence is… well, to not commit it in the first place! Stay away from trouble – park in designated areas (and make sure you Pay & Display!), don’t exceed the speed limit, and ensure you keep your tax disc up to date.
Of course, sometimes accidents do happen, and maybe you’ll go over the limit, or perhaps you’ll get caught up in that meeting and take more than your allotted two hours. Nobody’s perfect, and we’re not expecting you to be angelic.
However, one thing we do expect you to avoid is drinking and driving. It’s stupid and reckless, and there’s no need to do it. The consequences for getting caught are dire, so don’t do it!
Own Up
Sometimes, the best option is to simply admit fault. Paying a speeding fine early will be cheaper than putting it off – the charge will go up and you may be called into court.
It may be worth approaching the prosecutor and admitting your guilt, but putting forward your currently unblemished record. You may be able to get your charges reduced with this method, or perhaps avoid the penalty points.
Going to Court
Although there are ways to escape certain offences altogether (such as someone else being in control of the car when it was flashed by the speed camera), sometimes your defence may fail and you’ll find yourself in court.
If it’s a serious offence, like a hit and run or driving under the influence, the potential consequences are gloomy. Hire a traffic offences solicitor to help you out.
Keep your driving record on hand, especially if it’s clean – it can stand you in good stead. You may even be allowed to keep it clean.
Never argue with the judge, even if you are in the right. Remain calm under pressure. If you are charged with two offences, plead guilty to the lesser of the pair – you may be able to get away with having the larger one permanently marring your record if you offer to pay up.
This post has been produced by British writer Hannah for DrivingOffence.com.