Louisiana Traffic Tickets: Fines, Violations, and Penalties
Those on the receiving end of a Louisiana traffic ticket have several options for handling and paying them. Getting a traffic ticket usually means admitting guilt, paying the fine, and going along your way. Yet, some may want to contest their ticketing and judgment.
Before deciding the best action, one should consider their individual situation.
One may plead not guilty to a Louisiana traffic ticket and go to court. It is important to remember that going to court could result in additional fines or even jail time depending on the severity of the violation and other factors involved.
How to Pay a Louisiana Traffic Ticket?
You can typically pay your LA traffic tickets online, in person, or by mail.
You will receive points on your license when you get a traffic ticket. You’re welcome to check your driving records for information about the status of your license and registration. Otherwise, we recommend contacting your local DMV or talking with a traffic law professional.
In this instance – Louisiana does not use a driving record point system – so we encourage you to keep up-to-date with the DMV so you aren’t caught off guard with your penalties.
Louisiana Traffic Fines & Penalties
The fines & penalties you get depend on your actions and vary by the court’s decision. Your actions may cause higher fines and penalties depending on how many traffic points you have, too. You may also need to pay late fees if it’s not dealt with quickly.
Examples of incidents causing traffic and safety violations include:
- Reckless driving or racing
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to carry auto insurance
You may also get moving or non-moving violations like:
- Running a stop sign
- Distracted driving
- Faulty vehicle
Paying Your Louisiana Traffic Ticket
You have options when receiving a traffic ticket in Louisiana:
- Pay the fine and go about your day
- Request mitigation or contested hearing
You still need to pay the fines by their due dates, regardless if you’re contesting it. Below, you’ll learn how to pay the ticket using the various systems:
Online
- Verify your traffic ticket
- Visit the city/district court website
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Pay your fines and fees
Other Options
Your other options include visiting a local court or mailing the items. You should contact your local court to verify the information and what to do moving forward. This process will vary based on your ticket and status with the county and state.
Hearings and When to Hire an Attorney
You may request to contest your tickets by hearing.
The process varies by infractions, but you’ll typically have options for reducing or dismissing the ticket. If you can appeal and reduce the ticket, you’ll pay fewer fees and fines in place of doing a payment plan, community service, or maybe receiving the reduction outright.
You may also appeal and contest the tickets outright, to which you’ll work with an attorney. You and the attorney will request the hearing, go through the discovery, show up in court, and react based on what happens during the hearing.
Conclusion:
No matter your existing infractions, you can still contest them. It’s essential to understand the different processes and when it makes sense to hire an attorney. By understanding your situation and the process, you may be able to reduce or dismiss your tickets without having to spend additional money on a lawyer.
It’s up to you if you want legal representation throughout this process, but it’s important to remember that the lawyer can help you ascertain the best approach for your situation. If you decide not to use a lawyer, research the steps necessary for ticket reduction or dismissal. With patience and dedication, you can find success when contesting a ticket.
