Guy Decides To Put His Future First, Takes Girlfriend’s Dad To Court

A traffic fine can end up costing you a lot more than just what’s written on the ticket, and here’s why…

The True Cost of a Speeding Ticket in the U.S. – It’s More Than Just the Fine

Many people think a speeding ticket is just a small fine. In the U.S., the average cost of a speeding ticket is about $150, but the real price can be much higher when you include hidden costs like higher car insurance premiums and possible driver’s license points.

Speeding Ticket Costs by State

Where you get caught matters. In Tennessee, you might feel lucky—speeding fines are capped at just $50, making it the cheapest state for traffic violations. But if you’re speeding in Virginia or Illinois, the fine can go up to a shocking $2,500, according to Escort Radar, a company that makes smart radar detectors and safety tech.

Hidden Costs of Speeding Tickets

Even if your fine is small, the impact can last for years. If you simply pay the ticket, you’re admitting guilt. This means:

• Points go on your driver’s license
• Insurance companies may raise your premiums
• Your driving record is no longer clean

Escort Radar explains, “Even the lowest-level speeding violation can result in license points.” These points can raise your insurance rates by 45% to 80%, depending on how fast you were driving and your insurance company.

For example:

• 2 points on your license might increase your premium by 45%
• More points can raise it up to 80%
• 12 points can lead to a driver’s license suspension

How Long Does a Speeding Ticket Affect You?

It usually takes around 3 years of safe driving for your car insurance rates to return to normal after getting points on your record. That’s why many drivers choose to fight traffic tickets in court, especially if they believe they weren’t speeding.

What You Can Do

• Consult a traffic ticket lawyer if you feel the ticket was unfair.
• Use a radar detector to avoid future tickets.
• Drive safely to keep a clean record and lower insurance costs.

So what should you do if you suspect you’ve been served a bogus speeding ticket?

If you ever get pulled over and handed a speeding ticket, don’t panic—and don’t refuse to sign it. Whether or not you believe you’re guilty, legal experts from Bigger + Harman, APC, a trusted California law firm that focuses on traffic defense, recommend always signing the ticket.

Why Signing Doesn’t Mean You’re Guilty

Many drivers think signing a ticket is the same as admitting guilt. But that’s not true. According to Bigger + Harman:

“It’s simply a promise to take care of the ticket—either by paying the fine or showing up in court.”

Refusing to sign the ticket can actually make things worse. If you don’t sign, the officer may arrest you on the spot, and you’ll have to pay bail instead of being released.

What to Do Immediately After Getting a Ticket

To protect yourself:

• Write down every detail about the stop while it’s fresh in your mind.
• Note the time, location, weather, traffic, officer’s behavior, and what you were doing.

These details can help a traffic ticket attorney build a strong case to dismiss or reduce your fine.

Why You Need a Traffic Defense Attorney

A lot of people try to handle it alone—or worse, they hire the wrong kind of lawyer. Traffic court is fast-paced and technical, and general lawyers (like family law attorneys) may not be prepared.

Bigger + Harman emphasize:

“Hire a lawyer who specializes in traffic violations. They know the judges, local laws, and how to negotiate in court.”

Also, most traffic ticket lawyers offer a free consultation, so there’s no risk in speaking to one.

Can You Represent Yourself? Maybe… But It’s Risky

Unless you’re dealing with a cell phone ticket (which doesn’t add license points and only costs around $150), it’s smarter to let an expert handle your case. California, for example, has some of the most expensive traffic fines in the U.S.

How to Beat a Speeding Ticket in Court

According to Escort Radar, if you fight your speeding ticket and win:

• Your insurance rates won’t go up
• No points will be added to your driver’s license
• If the officer doesn’t show up in court, you may win by default

Bonus Tips to Save on Car Insurance After a Ticket

• Take a defensive driving course – some insurers will lower your rate if you complete one.
• Switch insurance companies – shop around for better rates and look for accident forgiveness programs.

Final Tip: Drive Safe and Slow Down

The best way to avoid all of this? Stay safe and follow the speed limit. Speeding tickets don’t just cost money—they affect your driving record, insurance premiums, and sometimes even your freedom.

“Godspeed to you!”: Netizens had loads of advice for the BF, and many urged him to go to court