Best Speeding & Traffic Ticket Lawyers in Nebraska

About Speeding & Traffic Ticket Law in Nebraska, United States

Speeding and traffic ticket law in Nebraska is designed to promote road safety and regulate driver behavior. The state enforces rules that cover everything from speed limits to the correct way to obey traffic signals and signs. If you are caught violating these laws, you may receive a ticket that can result in fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and potentially the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. Nebraska utilizes a point system to keep track of violations, and accumulating too many points may lead to further legal consequences.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several scenarios where securing legal help can be important if you receive a speeding or traffic ticket in Nebraska. You may benefit from consulting a lawyer if:

• You are facing license suspension due to accumulated points.
• You believe you were wrongly accused of a violation.
• Your ticket involves a serious violation, such as reckless or aggravated speeding.
• You have previous violations and want to avoid additional points or higher fines.
• Your job depends on a clean driving record (for example, commercial drivers).
• You want to dispute the ticket in court and need assistance with the legal process.
• You are an out-of-state driver unfamiliar with Nebraska laws.
• You face high insurance premium increases as a result of the citation.

Attorneys can help negotiate lesser penalties, dismissal, or diversion programs that minimize the impact on your record and finances.

Local Laws Overview

In Nebraska, speeding and traffic ticket laws are strictly enforced and can vary by jurisdiction, but there are some key aspects that apply statewide:

• Speed Limits: Nebraska sets basic speed limits for various types of roads including 75 mph on rural interstates, 65 mph on urban interstates, 65 mph on expressways, and 25 mph in residential areas unless posted otherwise.
• Point System: Nebraska uses a point system where each violation adds points to your driving record. For example, speeding by 1-5 mph over the limit results in 1 point, while 36 mph or more over the limit results in 4 points.
• License Suspension: Accumulating 12 points or more in any two-year period can result in an automatic license suspension.
• Fines and Penalties: Fines increase with the severity of the violation and can be higher in designated work or school zones.
• Traffic School: In some cases, you may be allowed or required to complete a defensive driving course to reduce points or dismiss a ticket.
• Commercial Drivers: More stringent standards apply to those holding a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a speeding or traffic ticket in Nebraska?

You can choose to pay the fine and accept the points, or you can contest the ticket in court. Review the instructions on your citation for correct procedures and deadlines.

How many points will I get for a speeding ticket?

The number of points depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit. For instance, 1 point for 1-5 mph over, 3 points for 16-35 mph over, and 4 points for 36 mph or more over the limit.

Will a Nebraska speeding ticket affect my insurance?

Yes, most moving violations, including speeding tickets, can cause your insurance rates to increase because they indicate a higher risk to insurers.

Can I remove points from my Nebraska driving record?

You may be eligible to remove 2 points once every 5 years by completing a state-approved driver improvement course.

What if I am from out of state and receive a ticket in Nebraska?

You are still required to pay the ticket or contest it in Nebraska. Your home state may also add points to your driving record depending on their agreement with Nebraska.

Do I need to appear in court for my ticket?

Most minor violations can be resolved by paying the fine without appearing in court. However, more serious offenses may require a court appearance.

What happens if I ignore or forget to pay my ticket?

Ignoring a ticket can lead to additional fines, a warrant for your arrest, and suspension of your driver’s license.

Can I plead not guilty to a traffic ticket?

Yes, you have the right to plead not guilty and present your case in court. It is often beneficial to have legal representation if you choose this route.

Will a traffic ticket stay on my record forever?

No, most traffic violations in Nebraska stay on your driving record for 5 years, though some serious violations may stay longer.

Can hiring a lawyer help me get a ticket dismissed?

A lawyer can review the circumstances of your case and may be able to identify errors or legal defenses, negotiate for a reduction in penalties, or seek dismissal when possible.

Additional Resources

• Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Provides official information on tickets, points, and license status.
• Nebraska Judicial Branch: Offers resources about traffic court procedures and schedules.
• Local County Courts: Contact your county courthouse for ticket payment and hearing information.
• Local Law Libraries: For guidance on state statutes and legal processes.
• Certified Defensive Driving Schools: Find options approved for point reduction and court diversion programs.

Next Steps

If you have received a speeding or traffic ticket in Nebraska and are unsure about your options, begin by reviewing the information on your citation, including the deadline to respond. Consider contacting a qualified traffic ticket attorney for a consultation, especially if you face serious penalties, risk of license suspension, or wish to contest the citation in court. Gather all documentation related to the incident, such as the ticket itself, any correspondence from the court, and your driving record, to assist your attorney in evaluating your case. Taking proactive steps early can help minimize the impact of a ticket on your driving record and finances.