Common NJ Tickets & Driving Violations

Got a Ticket? Call the Goldman Law Firm 908-692-7745

When you are pulled over in New Jersey, it's crucial to understand the implications of your case. Although you might think paying the fine and moving on is the best option, this choice can be more expensive than anticipated, and you may receive points you were otherwise unaware of. To make informed decisions, it is advisable to consult with an experienced New Jersey traffic violation lawyer promptly.

To clarify, when you "simply pay the fine," you are actually pleading guilty to violating New Jersey law. Paying the fine is equivalent to a guilty plea, which means you will face all the consequences associated with a traffic violation conviction. These consequences vary depending on the violation, so it's important to fully understand what is at stake in your specific situation.

Common New Jersey Traffic Violations and Penalties

There are numerous traffic violations under New Jersey law. As a result, when you get pulled over, one of the first things you need to do is determine exactly what charge (or charges) you are facing. This will allow you to determine what penalties are on the table, and then you can use this insight to make informed decisions about your next steps. Some of the most common traffic violations and penalties / points in New Jersey include:

• Careless Driving – A fine + two points on your driver’s license.

• Failure to Keep Right – A fine + two points on your driver’s license.

• Failure to Obey or Follow the Direction of a Police Officer – A fine + two points on your driver’s license.

• Failure to Observe Traffic Lanes or Signals – A fine + two points on your driver’s license.

• Improper Passing – A fine + four points on your driver’s license.

• Reckless Driving – A fine + 5 points

• Speeding (1-14 MPH Over the Limit) – A fine + two points on your driver’s license.

• Speeding (15-29 MPH Over the Limit) – A fine + four points on your driver’s license.

• Speeding (30 MPH or More Over the Limit) – A fine + five points on your driver’s license.

• Tailgating – A fine of approximately $50 to $200 and five points on your driver’s license.

All of these may have other consequences as well.

In New Jersey's driving violation point system, if you accumulate six or more points within three years, you must pay an annual surcharge in addition to your fine and other related costs. Some violations, however, come with an automatic surcharge regardless of your point total, such as in the case of a driving under the influence (DUI) ticket. Moreover, if you reach 12 or more points on your license at any time, your license will be suspended.

Besides fines and surcharges, traffic violations in New Jersey can result in additional expenses, including:

• Court costs and fees;

• Fees to reinstate your driver’s license after suspension; and,

• Higher insurance premiums.

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For numerous drivers, the most substantial financial burden resulting from a traffic ticket is the increase in insurance premiums. Even minor infractions, such as careless driving or slightly exceeding the speed limit, can elevate rates by several hundred dollars annually. Therefore, although the fine may appear minimal, the overall cost of pleading guilty can be significantly greater.

Preventing Unwarranted Penalties for a New Jersey Traffic Ticket

Although New Jersey traffic tickets can result in significant penalties, you can prevent unwarranted penalties by handling your case correctly. This begins with having an experienced New Jersey traffic violation attorney represent you like the Goldman Law Firm. Based on your case's specifics, we might negotiate a plea bargain to lessen your charge (and penalties), or we might succeed in having your traffic ticket dismissed.

Schedule a Consultation with a New Jersey Traffic Violation Lawyer Today

If you are dealing with a traffic ticket in New Jersey and want to make sure you are making informed decisions with your long-term best interests in mind, we invite you to get in touch. To schedule a confidential consultation with a New Jersey traffic violation lawyer at the Goldman Law Firm, please call 908-692-7745 tell us how we can reach you online so we can set up a phone call today.