Why Should You Call a Traffic Violation Attorney?
A speeding ticket or traffic violation may seem minor, but paying the fine isn’t always the smartest choice. At Bruntrager & Billings, P.C., our St. Louis traffic attorneys know that contesting a ticket with legal help can save you money, points on your license, and even your driving privileges.
Points on Your License Add Up
Missouri uses a point system to track violations. Most speeding offenses carry 3–4 points, and accumulating points can lead to license suspension:
- 8 points in 18 months: 30-day license suspension
- 12 points in 12 months: One-year license revocation
- 18 points in 24 months: One-year license revocation
- 24 points in 36 months: One-year license revocation
A traffic violation attorney can often negotiate to reduce charges or keep points off your record, especially if you already have prior violations.
Insurance Rate Increases
Traffic violations also affect insurance premiums. According to 2025 data, a single speeding ticket can raise rates by 20% to 30% for three to five years. Multiple violations can make insurance unaffordable or lead to coverage cancellation. Fighting your ticket with an attorney can prevent long-term financial consequences, often saving more than the cost of hiring legal help.
Commercial Drivers Face Higher Stakes
Commercial drivers face stricter rules, and traffic violations, even in personal vehicles, can threaten CDL status and employment. For example, serious violations like speeding 15+ mph over the limit can lead to 60 to 120-day disqualifications. Experienced traffic attorneys understand these regulations and can help minimize the impact on your career, protecting your license, job, and professional reputation.
Certain Violations Carry Criminal Consequences
Not all traffic violations are minor infractions. Some offenses carry serious criminal consequences that can affect your life beyond the road. Offenses such as reckless driving, DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, or driving on a suspended license can result in:
- Jail time
- A permanent criminal record
- Long-term impacts on employment, professional licenses, and housing
Experienced traffic attorneys can often negotiate reduced charges or alternative resolutions to help limit these consequences.
Challenging the Ticket May Reveal Weaknesses
Police officers and equipment can make mistakes. Radar guns may be improperly calibrated, stops may lack legal justification, or officer notes may contain errors. Traffic lawyers know how to identify weaknesses, raise technical defenses, and challenge procedural errors that could lead to dismissal.
The Court Process Is Unfamiliar Territory
Contesting a ticket requires court appearances, evidence presentation, cross-examination, and legal arguments. Prosecutors handle these cases daily. An attorney ensures you understand procedures, rules of evidence, and negotiation tactics. They may also appear in court on your behalf, saving time and stress.
Negotiation Can Lead to Better Outcomes
Many traffic cases are resolved through negotiation. Charges can often be reduced to lesser offenses that avoid points, such as non-moving violations like defective equipment. Skilled traffic attorneys have experience with local prosecutors and judges, improving the chances of favorable resolutions.
It’s Not as Expensive as You Think
Hiring a traffic attorney is often less costly than the long-term impact of points and insurance increases. Many St. Louis traffic lawyers offer flat fees (typically $150-300 for standard tickets) and free consultations to review your ticket and provide honest guidance on whether fighting it makes sense.
Protect Your Driving Record with a St. Louis Traffic Attorney
Whether your violation is a speeding ticket, careless driving, or a serious offense, legal representation gives you options. Contact Bruntrager & Billings, P.C. at 314-646-0066 or reach out online for a free consultation. Our St. Louis traffic attorneys will review your case and help protect your license, driving record, and wallet.