Best Speeding & Traffic Ticket Lawyers in Canberra

About Speeding & Traffic Ticket Law in Canberra, Australia

In Canberra, Australia, traffic and speeding laws are enforced to maintain safety on the roads. Infractions such as speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, and passing red lights are considered serious offences. Speeding and traffic tickets are issued by law enforcement officers and they carry penalties that may include fines, demerit points, or even suspension of a driver's licence depending on the severity of the offence.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Though traffic offences are common, it’s often beneficial to seek legal help when charged with a traffic offence. A skilled lawyer can assist in negotiating lower fines, fewer demerit points, possible dismissal of the charge, and help you avoid suspension of your licence. This is especially important if you are a professional driver or have previous traffic offences. You may also require a lawyer if you believe you have been wrongfully ticketed or if the consequences of the ticket could have serious implications on your life such as job loss or restriction on mobility due to licence suspension.

Local Laws Overview

Canberra’s traffic laws are strict and adhered to the Australian Road Rules, which is a nationally consistent set of traffic rules. Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and zone, and drivers are expected to follow these limits strictly. Traffic offences like drunk driving, reckless driving, and distracted driving are heavily penalized. A traffic ticket or fine in Canberra, also known as an "infringement notice", needs to be paid within 28 days from the date it was issued. Accumulated demerit points could lead to the suspension of driver's licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do when I receive a speeding ticket?

If you believe the ticket has been incorrectly issued, you can contest it legally with the help of a lawyer. If you accept the infringement, you must pay the fine by the due date to avoid additional charges.

2. What are demerit points and how do they work?

Demerit points are penalties for committing traffic offences. Accumulating certain points over a period of time can lead to licence suspension. Different traffic offences carry different point penalties.

3. Can I lose my driver's licence for a traffic offence?

Yes, serious traffic offences, or accumulating too many demerit points, can lead to suspension or cancellation of your driver's licence.

4. How long do demerit points last?

In Canberra, demerit points last for three years from the date of the offence.

5. Can I contest a speeding or traffic ticket?

Yes, if you believe the ticket was wrongfully issued, you can contest it in court with the help of a lawyer.

Additional Resources

The Access Canberra website is a great resource for understanding traffic regulations in Canberra. The Australian Road Rules, which apply in Canberra, is another essential resource for understanding traffic laws.

Next Steps

If you have been issued a traffic or speeding ticket and wish to contest it, or if you have accumulated enough demerit points to risk losing your licence, the first step is to seek legal help. Contact a reputable lawyer experienced in traffic law to understand your options and to get help in mitigating the consequences of a traffic offence.