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In Whakatane, New Zealand, like rest of the country, speeding and traffic violations are taken seriously and regulated by the Land Transport Act 1998. The purpose of this legislation is to ensure the safety and convenience of all road users. Speeding violations are determined by the speed limit of the area you are driving in, with penalties increasing the more you exceed the limit. It's also important to understand that other traffic related offences such as drunk driving, dangerous driving, and parking offences are also covered under this law.
While receiving a speeding ticket or traffic infringement notice isn’t unusual, there are circumstances where you might need the assistance of a lawyer. This may be the case if you’ve been wrongly accused of a violation, if you believe the severity of the charge is not warranted or if you are dealing with more severe charges like dangerous or drunk driving. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process, and provide representation if your case goes to court.
The Land Transport Act 1998 is the primary piece of legislation overseeing traffic offences in Whakatane. It sets out the rules and penalties for speeding and other traffic violations. It's mandated that all road users must comply with the speed limits which are typically 50 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h on open roads unless otherwise indicated. Driving over these limits often results in a ticket and demerit points added to your driving record. If a driver cumulates 100 demerit points within two years period, their license can be suspended.
If you receive a speeding ticket, you should either pay the fine before the due date or dispute the ticket if you believe it has been wrongly issued. A lawyer can provide advice on how to proceed if you wish to dispute the ticket.
If you accumulate 100 or more demerit points from driving offences within two years, you will lose your license for three months.
Speeding more than 40km/hr over the speed limit in New Zealand is regarded as a severe offence and could result in an immediate 28-day driving suspension, fines or even court summons.
This is a personal decision and depends upon the circumstances. If you believe you have a strong case, or if losing your license is a possibility, it may be worthwhile. A lawyer can provide advice tailored to your personal situation.
No, demerit points cannot be reduced. They remain on your license for two years from the date of the offence. If you reach 100 or more points within a two-year period, your license will be suspended for three months.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) provides detailed information about speed limits and road rules. Frequently updated statistics regarding road accidents and violations are also provided by the Ministry of Transport. Other resources like legal aid services and local law firms can provide assistance to individuals dealing with traffic violation related legal matters.
If you're considering legal action, it's advisable to contact a lawyer. Most law firms offer a free initial consultation. It can be helpful to gather all relevant documentation such as tickets or notice of fines before this meeting. The lawyer can then provide advice tailored to your situation, and help you decide the best course of action.
