Best Speeding & Traffic Ticket Lawyers in Bakersfield

About Speeding & Traffic Ticket Law in Bakersfield, United States

Speeding and traffic ticket laws in Bakersfield, California, are designed to promote road safety and regulate driver behavior. When drivers are cited for speeding or other traffic violations, they may face fines, points on their driving record, higher insurance premiums, and in some cases, license suspension. The Bakersfield Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and Kern County Sheriff’s Office enforce these laws in and around Bakersfield. Even minor violations can have significant consequences if not addressed correctly.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer for a speeding or traffic ticket in Bakersfield may be beneficial in several scenarios:

• You believe you were wrongly accused or the ticket was issued in error.
• You are facing multiple traffic violations that may lead to license suspension.
• Your job depends on maintaining a clean driving record.
• You are unfamiliar with local traffic laws and procedures.
• You received a ticket for an infraction that could be considered a misdemeanor, such as reckless driving, which may carry heavier penalties.
• You wish to contest the ticket in court to avoid points or increased insurance rates.
• You need help navigating court procedures and deadlines.
• You are an out-of-state driver and cannot appear in court personally.
• You want to explore options such as traffic school or plea bargains to reduce penalties.

Local Laws Overview

Bakersfield follows California state laws regarding traffic violations, but local enforcement can vary. Some key points about local speeding and traffic ticket laws include:

• Speed limits in Bakersfield are dictated by state law, with specific zones such as school or construction zones having reduced limits and stiffer penalties for violations.
• California uses a point system. Accumulating too many points from traffic tickets in a set period can lead to license suspension.
• Automated enforcement devices, such as red-light cameras, may be used in some intersections.
• Traffic infractions are typically handled through the Kern County Superior Court - Traffic Division.
• First-time minor violations may be eligible for traffic school, allowing you to avoid points on your record.
• Some local roads and intersections have a higher law enforcement presence due to safety concerns or accident history.
• Speed contests and reckless driving are treated as misdemeanors with the possibility of harsher penalties, including jail time or community service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after receiving a speeding ticket in Bakersfield?

After receiving a ticket, review it carefully for accuracy, respond by the court date shown, and decide whether to pay the fine, request traffic school, or contest the citation in court.

How many points will a speeding ticket add to my record?

Most speeding tickets in California add one point to your driving record. More serious violations, like reckless driving, can add two points.

Can I go to traffic school to keep points off my record?

Yes, in most cases you can attend traffic school for eligible moving violations to prevent points from being added to your record, provided you have not gone to traffic school for a ticket in the past 18 months.

Will my insurance rates go up after a speeding ticket?

Usually, yes. Insurance companies often raise premiums after traffic violations, unless points are masked by completing traffic school.

Do I have to go to court for a Bakersfield traffic ticket?

Not always. Many infractions can be resolved online, by mail, or in person at the court. However, you must appear in court if you wish to contest the ticket or if it is a misdemeanor violation.

Can a lawyer get my ticket dismissed?

An attorney may be able to get your ticket dismissed or reduced if there are errors, insufficient evidence, or if they can successfully challenge the officer’s observations.

What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket in Bakersfield?

Ignoring a ticket can lead to additional fines, a “failure to appear” charge, a suspended license, and possibly a warrant for your arrest.

How do I check how many points I have on my driving record?

You can request a copy of your driving record from the California Department of Motor Vehicles for a small fee.

Is it worth fighting a traffic ticket?

Depending on your circumstances, it may be worth contesting a ticket-especially if you believe you were wrongly cited or want to avoid points and increased insurance premiums.

What if I am an out-of-state driver who got a ticket in Bakersfield?

You are still responsible for responding to the citation. Failure to do so can result in consequences in your home state. Legal representation can help you handle the matter remotely.

Additional Resources

Here are some valuable resources and organizations that can assist with speeding and traffic ticket matters in Bakersfield:

• Kern County Superior Court - Traffic Division: Handles most local traffic citations and payments.
• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Keeps records of points and provides information on license status.
• Bakersfield Police Department: For questions about local traffic enforcement policies.
• California Highway Patrol: For tickets issued on state highways and safety information.
• California State Bar: Find qualified attorneys and legal aid for traffic matters.

Next Steps

If you have received a speeding or traffic ticket in Bakersfield, take these steps:

• Read your ticket thoroughly and note your options and important deadlines.
• Decide whether you want to pay the fine, attend traffic school, or contest the ticket.
• Consult with a qualified traffic attorney if you are considering fighting the ticket, have prior violations, or are unsure of the consequences.
• Reach out to the Kern County Superior Court or the organization listed on your citation for specific instructions.
• Keep track of all paperwork, receipts, and court communications.
• Follow up on your case to ensure all requirements are met and avoid further penalties.