Case Result: Speeding Ticket Dismissed for Traveling Salesman, Saving His Job
For many people, a speeding ticket is a costly inconvenience. But for a professional driver, it can be a career-ending event. When your livelihood depends on maintaining a clean driving record, simply paying a ticket is not an option. Our firm recently represented a traveling salesman in this exact high-stakes situation. This case result highlights how a proactive and strategic legal defense can lead to the best possible outcome: a complete dismissal that protects a client’s job and future.
The Challenge: A Career on the Line Over a Speeding Ticket
Our client was a traveling salesman whose job required him to be on the road constantly in a company-provided vehicle. His employer, like many companies, had a strict policy regarding traffic violations to manage insurance costs and liability. He was cited for speeding 15 miles per hour over the posted limit—a violation that put his employment in serious jeopardy. He understood that a conviction would mean points on his license and a likely report to his employer, which could lead to termination. Understanding the potential impact of a speeding ticket on your license and insurance, he knew he couldn’t just pay the fine and admit guilt. He needed an attorney who would fight for a full dismissal.
Our Strategy: A Proactive Approach to Traffic Defense
In North Carolina, many drivers are tempted to pay their ticket or accept a reduction to a lesser violation, like an improper equipment charge. While that can be a valid strategy for some, it was not the right one for our client. Any admission of guilt could have triggered his employer’s disciplinary process. Our goal from day one was to secure a complete dismissal of the charge.
Our Dummit Fradin traffic attorney’s approach involved several key steps:
- Thorough Case Analysis: We didn’t just examine the ticket; we thoroughly analyzed every detail surrounding the traffic stop. This included reviewing the officer’s notes, the method used to determine the vehicle’s speed, and the specific language of the citation to check for any procedural errors or inconsistencies.
- Preparing a Vigorous Defense: We prepared to challenge the charge in court. This involved understanding the specific elements the state must prove for a speeding conviction under the North Carolina General Statute § 20-141. By preparing to fight the ticket on its merits, we put ourselves in a much stronger negotiating position with the District Attorney’s office.
- Negotiating from a Position of Strength: An attorney’s reputation and readiness to go to court can be a powerful tool. Our lawyer entered into negotiations with the prosecutor, armed with a solid defense plan. We highlighted the client’s situation—a responsible professional whose livelihood was at stake—and our readiness to contest the evidence.
The Outcome: A Complete Dismissal with No Fines or Costs
As a result of our attorney’s proactive strategy and skillful negotiation, the District Attorney agreed to **completely dismiss the speeding ticket.**
This was an absolute victory for our client. The outcome meant:
- No fines or court costs to pay.
- No points added to his driver’s license.
- No increase in his personal or his company’s insurance rates.
- Most importantly, his job was secure. He could report the dismissal to his employer and continue his career without any negative repercussions.
This case is a clear example of why, for professional drivers, fighting a traffic ticket is a critical investment in their career and financial future.