Traffic Law FAQs

Generally, it depends on the number of miles over the posted speed limit. On most Ohio highways (example: I-75) with higher speed limits, nine or less miles over the speed limit is considered 0 points in Ohio. On most local roads, four or less miles in excess of the speed limit would be considered 0 points in Ohio.  Depending on a driver’s history, many of our traffic clients are able to see their speeding citation amended to a 0 point speed or a non-moving violation, such as Brake Equipment. These amendments can prove to be very valuable in a driver’s future. Out of state clients should advise our traffic attorney of any home state preferences, such as specific non-moving violations accepted by your state.

Most likely.  About 48 states communicate and share traffic citations with other states.  Your home state will have the final decision as to what appears on your driving record.  Many states will specifically honor Ohio’s disposition, but we encourage our clients to monitor their license for several months after an Ohio traffic citation. Be sure to tell your traffic lawyer about your out of state drivers license. Consult with your home state BMV as to whether they have any preferences when dealing with amended citations.  For example, some states prefer a headlight violation instead of a brake equipment violation.

Showing proof of insurance is a requirement in all Ohio traffic cases. Your insurance must cover the date of offense. We ask our clients to provide a copy of their valid auto insurance card at the beginning of our representation. Lack of proving valid auto insurance results in additional consequences, sometimes a license suspension The responsibility of showing proof of insurance lies upon the driver, not the police officer.

Always consult a traffic attorney to confirm what exactly you received. Toledo, Ohio has several intersections with operating red light and speeding cameras. These cameras are uniquely different as they are civil violations imposing a monetary violation and 0 points are assessed to an Ohio drivers license. Failure to pay these civil traffic violations may have a negative impact on your credit score and further result in collections.

You can review the status of your Ohio drivers license online, including any reinstatement requirements for suspended drivers licenses. Visit the Ohio BMV

This is a common myth in Ohio.  There is no actual statute that allows such a 2 point reduction.  However, certain defensive driving classes can raise the ceiling from 12 to 14 points, which is helpful in avoiding a 12 point license suspension in Ohio.  These classes are offered in various locations across Ohio.  Attendees may be court ordered or voluntarily present.  These classes typically require a modest fee and your course completion can be forwarded to most Ohio courts and Ohio BMV.

When you mail in your traffic fine, you are basically admitting to the  citation’s charge.  Sometimes, our clients ask if we can withdraw this “admission” and attempt to get an amended charge that is more license friendly.  While everyone’s traffic citation is different, it may be possible to change your plea.  We recommend pursuing this option sooner than later.  If you feel that a change of plea may be appropriate in your case, call your traffic attorney to discuss any available options.