Technicalities That Make a Traffic Ticket Invalid

Obstruction of Traffic Signs

Speeding tickets can be invalidated if the speed limit signs in the area where the ticket was received were obstructed at the time — e.g., a fallen tree branch blocking a speed sign after a storm. In this case, the tree branch's presence is defined as a technical issue, one that can be brought up in court. Make sure to provide a report of when the obstructing object fell, including the work order for its removal and the time it was removed.

Officer Absence

If the issuing officer or state trooper doesn't show up in court on the date of the trial, the case is automatically thrown out. Increase the chances of an absentee officer by postponing the court date for as long as possible. In many instances, the officer forgets about issuing the ticket in the first place and misses the date.

Conditions

While the issuing officer is writing a citation, making note of the conditions of your traffic stop is imperative. Small things such as your shirt color, exact location, weather and distance between where you stopped and where the ticket was issued can later play to your advantage in court. Ask the officer questions about these conditions on the day of the trial. Because he will be under oath, any false claims he makes can be used against him and invalidate your ticket.

Necessity of Speed Defense

Using the "necessity of speed" defense argues that while you were guilty of speeding, certain circumstances necessitated it. One instance would be going 55 mph in a zone where surrounding traffic is going at 70 mph and being forced to increase speed to avoid an accident. This defense can result in a dismissal; however, it's seldom known to work and should only be used as a last resort.

References

• World Law Direct: Fighting a Speeding Ticket
• Expert Law: Should You Fight Your Traffic Ticket?

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