Out of State Traffic Ticket
The process of getting a traffic ticket in Washington DC can be confusing, especially if you live out-of-state. It is important to consult with an experienced Washington DC traffic lawyer right away to understand the DC traffic ticket process. The charges and consequences for any traffic violation in DC can lead to points added to your license or even the loss of your license. Please contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your traffic charges.
Out-of-State Traffic Citation
For starters, take it seriously—don’t blow it off. Ignoring a Washington DC traffic ticket can come back to haunt you years later. DC is a confusing place to drive, and having a license from another state doesn’t exempt you from complying with local traffic laws. Every state handles suspensions and reciprocity differently.
Because it’s an administrative adjudication, a guilty finding for DC speeding tickets could trigger penalties back in your home jurisdiction, even if the fines are paid in DC. Running from a DC speed camera ticket or other traffic citation won’t solve the problem; it can affect your driving record, insurance, and even your ability to transfer your license.
Navigating DC Streets and Administrative Hearings
DC has unique streets, one-way systems, and short blocks, which can make navigation difficult for out-of-state drivers. That’s another reason why having a lawyer familiar with Washington DC traffic tickets can be critical.
Administrative law hearings for DC traffic tickets are different from court proceedings. Rules of evidence are relaxed, allowing you to bring in documentation and other evidence to support your defense for a DC speeding ticket or DC speed camera ticket. The hearing examiner will typically err on the side of admitting relevant evidence, so it’s worth preparing carefully.
Always carry your license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. While it’s not the end of the world if you are caught without these, fines can be substantial. For example, your first offense for operating an uninsured vehicle is $500. Contesting a Washington DC traffic ticket can allow you to provide proof that you were insured at the time, potentially reducing penalties.
Ignoring a DC Traffic Ticket
Ignoring DC speeding tickets or other Washington DC traffic tickets can result in doubled fines after 60 days, points on your license, and potential suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. Unpaid tickets can also prevent you from renewing your license or transferring it to another state.
Even if an officer issued a DC speed camera ticket, it’s worth attending the hearing. Officers sometimes lose their notes, or the ticket may have been issued incorrectly. Defending yourself allows the government to prove its case, which can result in reduced fines or dismissal.
Maryland and Virginia Treatment of DC Traffic Violations
Points and fines from Washington DC traffic tickets are generally reported to your home state. If a DC driver receives a citation in Virginia, the DC DMV may assess points as if the violation occurred in DC. While not perfect, the system ensures that DC speeding tickets and other traffic violations affect your driving record and insurance both locally and across state lines. Contact us if you have any questions.
