I got a speeding ticket for going 9 mph over the limit in South Carolina, and I’m wondering if I should dispute it or just pay the fine online. I’m not too concerned about the fee, but I’m worried about how it might affect my insurance premiums. Any advice?
No prior points taken off
It’s important to note that DMV points are not the same as insurance points. Paying the ticket is essentially a guilty plea, which could lead to an increase in your insurance premiums. To avoid that, it’s worth fighting the ticket to achieve a not guilty outcome, dismissal, or at least a reduction to a non-moving violation, which won’t impact your insurance rates.
Hiring a ticket lawyer might be a good option—they usually charge around the same as the original ticket cost and can often get the charge reduced to a non-moving violation. It’s definitely worth giving a few lawyers a call.