Summer in Miami means hitting the open road for exciting family vacations and spontaneous getaways. While the allure of new destinations is strong, the open road also brings the risk of an unexpected souvenir: an out-of-state traffic ticket. Many drivers mistakenly believe that a ticket received far from home is less serious, or won’t impact their Florida driving record. This assumption can lead to costly surprises, including higher insurance premiums, points on your license, and even potential license suspension.
At Ziemer Law, we understand the complexities of traffic violations, both in-state and out-of-state. Knowing your rights and the potential impact of a citation is crucial for protecting your driving privileges and financial well-being.
The Out-of-State Surprise: How Tickets Follow You Home
The notion that an out-of-state ticket won’t affect your Florida record is a dangerous myth. Most states in the U.S. are part of interstate agreements designed to share driver information:
- The Driver License Compact (DLC): Florida is a member of the DLC. This agreement allows member states to exchange information regarding traffic violations committed by non-residents. This means that a moving violation you receive in a DLC member state will likely be reported to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), and points may be assessed against your Florida driving record as if the offense occurred in Florida.
- The Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC): This compact deals with drivers who fail to respond to a traffic citation in a state other than their home state. If you fail to appear in court or pay a fine in an NRVC member state, your home state (Florida, in this case) may suspend your driver’s license until you resolve the outstanding violation.
Therefore, an out-of-state traffic ticket will almost certainly have repercussions on your Florida driving record.
Beyond the Fine: The Real Impact of a Traffic Ticket
The immediate fine for a traffic ticket is often just the tip of the iceberg. The long-term consequences can be far more damaging:
- Insurance Premiums: This is one of the most common and expensive impacts. Even a single moving violation, especially speeding tickets, can lead to a significant increase in your car insurance rates for several years. Insurance companies often view even minor violations as indicators of increased risk.
- Points on Your License: Each moving violation carries a specific number of points. In Florida, accumulating too many points can lead to:
- 12 points within 12 months: 30-day license suspension.
- 18 points within 18 months: 3-month license suspension.
- 24 points within 36 months: 1-year license suspension.
- Driving Privileges: Beyond points, certain serious violations (e.g., reckless driving, DUI) can result in immediate and mandatory license suspension or revocation, regardless of your point total.
- Criminal Charges: What might seem like a simple traffic citation can sometimes escalate. For example, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, or DUI are not just tickets; they are criminal charges (misdemeanors or felonies) that carry far more severe penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and a criminal record.
When is it Advisable to Fight an Out-of-State Traffic Citation?
Given the potential impacts, it’s often advisable to fight a ticket, especially if:
- It’s a High-Impact Violation: Tickets for excessive speeding, reckless driving, or any criminal traffic offense (like DUI) should almost always be fought due to their severe consequences.
- You’re Accumulating Points: If you already have points on your Florida record, another ticket could trigger a license suspension. Fighting it might save your driving privileges.
- You’re a Professional Driver: For those who drive for a living (e.g., CDL holders), even minor violations can jeopardize employment.
- You Have Clear Grounds for Defense: This includes evidence of officer error, faulty radar/laser equipment, unclear signage, or mistaken identity.
Strategies for Fighting an Out-of-State Ticket
If you decide to challenge an out-of-state ticket, here’s what to consider:
- Do Not Just Pay It: Paying the fine typically equates to a guilty plea and will result in points being assessed and reported to Florida.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, signage, road conditions, or anything relevant. Note the weather conditions, time, and any discrepancies.
- Consult a Local Attorney: This is crucial. Traffic laws vary significantly from state to state. You’ll need an attorney licensed to practice in the state where the ticket was issued, or one who specializes in multi-state traffic law and has connections there. They can advise you on local court procedures, plea bargains, and whether attending traffic school in that state can prevent points from transferring.
- Understand Your Options: Your attorney can explore options like deferred adjudication (where the ticket is dismissed after a probationary period), traffic school, or taking the case to trial. Often, attorneys can resolve these matters without you having to travel back to the issuing state.
Ziemer Law: Your Defense Against Traffic Violations in Florida
While Ziemer Law primarily focuses on criminal defense and traffic tickets within Florida, we can provide vital guidance for out-of-state violations. We can:
- Advise on Florida Impact: Explain precisely how an out-of-state ticket will affect your Florida driving record, insurance, and license privileges.
- Connect You with Local Counsel: Leverage our network to help you find a reputable and experienced traffic lawyer in the state where you received the citation.
- Manage Florida Consequences: If the ticket has already impacted your Florida record, we can advise on steps to mitigate the damage.
Protect Your Record, Enjoy Your Summer
Don’t let an out-of-state traffic ticket ruin your summer or lead to long-term consequences. Take it seriously, understand its potential impact on your driving record and finances, and seek legal counsel. Proactive legal action can help protect your driving privileges and ensure a smoother return from your summer road trip adventures. Contact Ziemer Law today to discuss your options.
