Michigan Traffic Tickets Questions & Answers
Q: I have 4 traffic tickets from 4 years ago right before I went off for college. Now I have warrants what do I do?
Mark Bredow's answer
Much depends upon what infractions are in those tickets. If they are only civil traffic matters, you have probably been defaulted and are responsible to pay them. However, some tickets are actually criminal misdemeanors which are punishable by fees, fines, costs, and depending upon the circumstances and your record, could include jail. Those will need to be addressed and a formal plea entered. You will need to contact the court, determine the actual charges, determine the maximum fines and...
Much depends upon what infractions are in those tickets. If they are only civil traffic matters, you have probably been defaulted and are responsible to pay them. However, some tickets are actually criminal misdemeanors which are punishable by fees, fines, costs, and depending upon the circumstances and your record, could include jail. Those will need to be addressed and a formal plea entered. You will need to contact the court, determine the actual charges, determine the maximum fines and...
Q: I’m 16, Ilive in Michigan, I got pulled over for doing 70 in a 55 but only got a ticket for going 1-5 over.
Mark Bredow's answer
Probably not, but you should definitely contact an attorney who handles traffic matters near you. Hire him/her to set this matter for a hearing and to appear with you at the hearing. If your record is otherwise clear, he/she may be able to resolve the case with no points and no record. It is worth the investment.
Probably not, but you should definitely contact an attorney who handles traffic matters near you. Hire him/her to set this matter for a hearing and to appear with you at the hearing. If your record is otherwise clear, he/she may be able to resolve the case with no points and no record. It is worth the investment.
Q: Speeding ticket, need avoid guilty because of my insurance rates!! is there a way to go thru the court, pay fee
Brent T. Geers' answer
Insurance companies set rates based on a number of factors, not lest of which is your driving record and self-disclosures. A speeding ticket is a civil infraction (assuming the speed and conditions did not reach the misdemeanor criminal level). You will need to request a formal hearing, at which you may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor or city attorney. Sometimes these can be resolved by you admitting responsibility for some offense that doesn't require "points" being reported to the...
Insurance companies set rates based on a number of factors, not lest of which is your driving record and self-disclosures. A speeding ticket is a civil infraction (assuming the speed and conditions did not reach the misdemeanor criminal level). You will need to request a formal hearing, at which you may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor or city attorney. Sometimes these can be resolved by you admitting responsibility for some offense that doesn't require "points" being reported to the...
Q: My car was stolen in Michigan and I reported it the same day.
Mark Bredow's answer
There is no statute which requires the police to notify you that quickly or that requires them to leave the vehicle where it is found, notify you, and wait for you to tow it. It could be in a dangerous place, on someone else's property, or pose a risk to traffic. They tow the vehicle to secure it from further loss, or to preserve it for evidence. Giving you notice within a day is a very good response time. You may wish to present the towing charge to your insurance carrier for payment....
There is no statute which requires the police to notify you that quickly or that requires them to leave the vehicle where it is found, notify you, and wait for you to tow it. It could be in a dangerous place, on someone else's property, or pose a risk to traffic. They tow the vehicle to secure it from further loss, or to preserve it for evidence. Giving you notice within a day is a very good response time. You may wish to present the towing charge to your insurance carrier for payment....
Q: Got arrested for driving without insurance, can I sell my car to pay the ticket before my court date?
Frank B. Ford's answer
So far as I know, there would be nothing preventing you from selling the car. If you keep the car, however, be sure you get insurance on it before you go to court, and take the proof of insurance coverage to court as soon as possible. If you can't do it before the court date, take the proof with you when you go to court. If the insurance certificate is on your phone, print out a copy, since many courts won't let you take a phone into the court building. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
So far as I know, there would be nothing preventing you from selling the car. If you keep the car, however, be sure you get insurance on it before you go to court, and take the proof of insurance coverage to court as soon as possible. If you can't do it before the court date, take the proof with you when you go to court. If the insurance certificate is on your phone, print out a copy, since many courts won't let you take a phone into the court building. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
Q: I was in an accident yesterday and had a blood level of 2.98. This will be my second offense and I’m really worried
2 Answers
| Asked
in
Car Accidents, Personal Injury, DUI / DWI and Traffic Tickets
for
Michigan
on
Answered on Feb 21, 2019
Answered on Feb 21, 2019
Frank B. Ford's answer
You definitely need an attorney to help you with the situation. The information here does not indicate where this happened, which can affect how to approach the case, the cost for legal services, and who might be a good choice of attorneys. I think it would be better if you called me, or some other attorney, rather than asking for attorneys to call you. Most attorneys will discuss fees over the phone, once some of the basic information about the case is known. One thing for sure, you did...
You definitely need an attorney to help you with the situation. The information here does not indicate where this happened, which can affect how to approach the case, the cost for legal services, and who might be a good choice of attorneys. I think it would be better if you called me, or some other attorney, rather than asking for attorneys to call you. Most attorneys will discuss fees over the phone, once some of the basic information about the case is known. One thing for sure, you did...
Q: I need to take care of a 14 year old traffic for driving on suspended license what's my options
Frank B. Ford's answer
Contact the court to see if there is a warrant for your arrest. If so, find out what the amount of the bond is. You would normally then have to go to the police department, but sometimes directly to the court, to turn yourself in on the warrant and post the bond, and get the charge set for a Pre-trial. Make sure that all the issues that are or were keeping you from having a valid license are taken care of, if possible. It is a very good idea to have an attorney helping you with this type of...
Contact the court to see if there is a warrant for your arrest. If so, find out what the amount of the bond is. You would normally then have to go to the police department, but sometimes directly to the court, to turn yourself in on the warrant and post the bond, and get the charge set for a Pre-trial. Make sure that all the issues that are or were keeping you from having a valid license are taken care of, if possible. It is a very good idea to have an attorney helping you with this type of...
Q: I received 2 tickets and a warning. I was not in the vehicle. I was at home sleeping. What do I do?
Mark Bredow's answer
You did not mention the specific citations that were issued. However, most infractions, including defective equipment violations are issued to the driver, not the owner. It is an infraction to drive a vehicle that does not comply, not to own one. There are citations that can be issued to an owner based upon the owner's allowing another to drive. I recommend that you contact an attorney and request a formal hearing on the citations. You may also consider filing a FOIA request for a copy of...
You did not mention the specific citations that were issued. However, most infractions, including defective equipment violations are issued to the driver, not the owner. It is an infraction to drive a vehicle that does not comply, not to own one. There are citations that can be issued to an owner based upon the owner's allowing another to drive. I recommend that you contact an attorney and request a formal hearing on the citations. You may also consider filing a FOIA request for a copy of...
Q: I received a running red light ticket but the name on the ticket is not mine it's the owner of the vehicles do i pay it
Frank B. Ford's answer
You need to contact the police department that issued the ticket, and ask them to dismiss the ticket and re-write it in your name. If you just pay it, the other person will get points on their record that they don't deserve. In being honest about it, you may actually help yourself by getting the police or prosecutor to give you some kind of a break. Do the right thing. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
You need to contact the police department that issued the ticket, and ask them to dismiss the ticket and re-write it in your name. If you just pay it, the other person will get points on their record that they don't deserve. In being honest about it, you may actually help yourself by getting the police or prosecutor to give you some kind of a break. Do the right thing. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
Q: How do you request a court appointed attorney for a traffic violation?
Brent T. Geers' answer
You don't get one unless what you're cited for is a misdemeanor (versus a civil infraction), and you have the possibility of jail.
You don't get one unless what you're cited for is a misdemeanor (versus a civil infraction), and you have the possibility of jail.
Q: Will I be able to use an emergency situation defense?
Brent T. Geers' answer
Your boyfriend is fortunate that all he received was a speeding citation; he could have received criminal charges. Given the circumstances, though, and the fact that he wasn't criminally charged, it may be worth his while to obtain local counsel and request a formal hearing on the citation to see what can be worked out.
Your boyfriend is fortunate that all he received was a speeding citation; he could have received criminal charges. Given the circumstances, though, and the fact that he wasn't criminally charged, it may be worth his while to obtain local counsel and request a formal hearing on the citation to see what can be worked out.
Q: Traffic Crash
Brent T. Geers' answer
Doesn't sound like it. Criminal charges could result if alcohol or drugs were involved, or you failed to stop and report, or you somehow intentionally or recklessly did this. None of that appears to be the case here.
Doesn't sound like it. Criminal charges could result if alcohol or drugs were involved, or you failed to stop and report, or you somehow intentionally or recklessly did this. None of that appears to be the case here.
Q: Fail to Stop in Assured Clear Distance citation information wrong: Name, Address, Driver's License# and car can i fight
Brent T. Geers' answer
You will not win on the merits due to wrong information, unless you are saying that you received this ticket but you weren't the one driving. And if it was you driving, but the ticket lists someone else's information, how is it affecting you at this point? By asking for a formal hearing and showing up, the court will simply correct the information and ask you why you should not be held responsible.
You will not win on the merits due to wrong information, unless you are saying that you received this ticket but you weren't the one driving. And if it was you driving, but the ticket lists someone else's information, how is it affecting you at this point? By asking for a formal hearing and showing up, the court will simply correct the information and ask you why you should not be held responsible.
Q: I reviced a double parking ticket, but the address on the ticket doesnt match my ID or Insurance. Do i gave to pay it?
Brent T. Geers' answer
Yes. The wrong address won't get you out of the parking ticket. They have your license plate number and sooner or later it will catch up to you. My advice is to pay it and move along with life, but be sure that the ticketing agency has your current address because you don't want them coming back down the road saying you owe extra costs.
Yes. The wrong address won't get you out of the parking ticket. They have your license plate number and sooner or later it will catch up to you. My advice is to pay it and move along with life, but be sure that the ticketing agency has your current address because you don't want them coming back down the road saying you owe extra costs.
Q: I was in a car accident. The ticket states that I left the scene. I gave all my information to the other party.
Frank B. Ford's answer
Leaving the scene of an accident is a 6 point violation, which is as big as they get. It is also a criminal offense that could conceivably put you in jail for three months, although that is not likely. My point is, it's a serious charge, and you should get an attorney who regularly practices traffic law to assist you, and do so as soon as possible. An attorney can present your situation in the most favorable light. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
Leaving the scene of an accident is a 6 point violation, which is as big as they get. It is also a criminal offense that could conceivably put you in jail for three months, although that is not likely. My point is, it's a serious charge, and you should get an attorney who regularly practices traffic law to assist you, and do so as soon as possible. An attorney can present your situation in the most favorable light. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
Q: I just received a speeding ticket and the officer wrote I was doing 80 in a 55 zone, but the zone was 70.
Frank B. Ford's answer
The rights I assume you refer to are the Miranda Warnings. Those do not apply for two reasons: You were not in custody, and a speeding ticket is not a criminal charge, it is a Civil Infraction. If the area had a 70 MPH speed limit, then that is a significant issue, because that makes a difference in the number of points you would get if you are found responsible or plead responsible. Depending on where this took place, you may want to request an Informal Hearing, or hire an attorney and...
The rights I assume you refer to are the Miranda Warnings. Those do not apply for two reasons: You were not in custody, and a speeding ticket is not a criminal charge, it is a Civil Infraction. If the area had a 70 MPH speed limit, then that is a significant issue, because that makes a difference in the number of points you would get if you are found responsible or plead responsible. Depending on where this took place, you may want to request an Informal Hearing, or hire an attorney and...
Q: I got a ticket for double parking even though I was pulled over for speeding. Is this legal? Can I do anything about it?
Frank B. Ford's answer
You got a big break. Pay the ticket for double parking and be happy you won't be getting points. In fact, nothing at all will go on your driving record, so long as you pay the ticket on time. If you contest it, they will probably amend the ticket to charge you with the speeding charge, so leave well enough alone and pay it. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
You got a big break. Pay the ticket for double parking and be happy you won't be getting points. In fact, nothing at all will go on your driving record, so long as you pay the ticket on time. If you contest it, they will probably amend the ticket to charge you with the speeding charge, so leave well enough alone and pay it. Sincerely, Frank B. Ford
Q: I am under the age of 18 and I have a driver's permit but not a Driver's License can I purchase a car at a Dealership?
1 Answer
| Asked
in
Traffic Tickets, Car Accidents and Civil Rights
for
Michigan
on
Answered on Aug 22, 2018
Answered on Aug 22, 2018
Mark Bredow's answer
it's unlikely that a car dealer will sell to you alone, without an adult, because minors may void a contract until their 18th birthday. But, if they do, the dealer will apply for the plate for you. You are not required to be a licensed driver to purchase a car, but you have to be licensed to drive it off the lot.
it's unlikely that a car dealer will sell to you alone, without an adult, because minors may void a contract until their 18th birthday. But, if they do, the dealer will apply for the plate for you. You are not required to be a licensed driver to purchase a car, but you have to be licensed to drive it off the lot.
Q: I forgot to get my tag renewed. I got a citation. Can I fight it?
Frank B. Ford's answer
Contact the court within the time period stated on the ticket. Tell them you want to have an Informal Hearing, or Pre-trial, depending on how the ticket is written. The ticket should be marked as to if it is a Civil Infraction (CI) or Misdemeanor (Misd). There should be instructions for whichever it is attached to the ticket; follow them. as to how to contest a ticket. Then go to court when you are notified or told to come to court, and explain your situation to the prosecutor or officer or...
Contact the court within the time period stated on the ticket. Tell them you want to have an Informal Hearing, or Pre-trial, depending on how the ticket is written. The ticket should be marked as to if it is a Civil Infraction (CI) or Misdemeanor (Misd). There should be instructions for whichever it is attached to the ticket; follow them. as to how to contest a ticket. Then go to court when you are notified or told to come to court, and explain your situation to the prosecutor or officer or...
Q: I was stopped because of move over violation. Did not get the ticket. Will he charge me because it is misdemeanor
Jasmine D. Rippy's answer
Failure to yield to an emergency vehicle is a misdemeanor in Michigan punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 and/or imprisonment for up to 90 days. If the officer didn’t give you a ticket, then you got a break.
Failure to yield to an emergency vehicle is a misdemeanor in Michigan punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 and/or imprisonment for up to 90 days. If the officer didn’t give you a ticket, then you got a break.
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