In your quest to become one of the best drivers in North Carolina, you may research traffic laws to know what is and is not allowed. Do you know how to separate fact from fiction?
Lifehacker took a deep dive into common traffic and ticket law myths. Look to see whether what you think you know matches reality.
If the officer does not show up in court, you are off the hook
With this one, it depends on the jurisdiction. That said, even if the officer does not appear, the judge can reschedule your hearing to fight the ticket so the officer can appear. In the end, the only thing you may accomplish is spending more time than necessary in court…and still having to pay the ticket anyway.
Clerical mistakes render tickets invalid
A misspelling of your name or the make or model of your vehicle does not render the ticket invalid. Computers handle the most important details of the citation; anything else is likely considered an easy mistake.
Speeding is okay if you follow the flow of traffic
You should go with the flow of traffic to keep from causing an accident, right? The truth is that every car blasting past the speed limit becomes a target for police officers, you just may be the one singled out and pulled over.
You do not have to pay a ticket if you move to a different state
Do not think you can ignore a traffic ticket if you received it in the days leading up to your move to a different state. Many states share ticket data, meaning that your ticket essentially waits on the doorstep of your new residence in your new state.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
