As of January 6,
2012, California has increased the amount of money they charge for traffic
violations. The fines for over two dozen traffic infractions have been changed
causing the amount charged to be up by almost 30%.
These
increases cover a variety of traffic infraction. Traffic fines for issues such
as speeding have increased, as well as fines for other infractions such as
using a non hands-free phone while driving , neglecting to contact the DMV about
a change in address, and failing to wear seat belts in the vehicle.
Now
an infraction like failing to stop at a red light will cost $436 and parking in
a handicapped spot will cost $976 for the first offense and $1876 for the
second. Fines start in the $100 range
and go up to nearly $2000.
While
the fines on some of the infractions, such as lack of current registration in
the vehicle or the failure to use passenger child restraints, can be waived or
reduced with valid proofs of correction or by attending certain programs, the
majority of fines are mandatory.
Speedingticket attorneys can be employed to defend clients against fines in court. A
successful case can result in the abolishment of the fine and the removal of
any other negative results caused by the ticket, such as points on record, etc.
With the current California ticket fines
increase, one needs to be even more aware of driving carefully to avoid the
problems associated with being faced with a ticket. The 30% increase in fines
is something no one wants to encounter. Through safe driving and perhaps an
occasional speeding ticket attorney, one would be sure to have adequate
protection from the new increased fines. 