PA Traffic Citation Payment? Avoid Points & Higher Fees!

Understanding the commonwealth of pennsylvania traffic citation payment process is crucial for all drivers in the Keystone State. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) offers several avenues for resolving these citations. A guilty plea can lead to points on your driving record and increased insurance premiums, depending on the severity of the violation. Therefore, exploring options like attending Traffic School or contesting the citation is essential for mitigating potential consequences.

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Navigating Your Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Traffic Citation Payment

Understanding your options for paying a traffic citation in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and how to potentially avoid points and increased fees, is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process.

Understanding Your Citation

Before making a payment, ensure you understand the details on your traffic citation.

• Citation Number: Locate this unique identifier, as it's essential for payment.
• Offense Description: Know exactly what you are being charged with.
• Fine Amount: Understand the total amount due, including any court costs or fees.
• Due Date: Pay attention to the deadline. Late payments can result in additional penalties, including a suspended driver's license.
• Court Information: Note the specific court handling your citation.

Payment Methods for Pennsylvania Traffic Citations

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers several convenient methods for paying traffic citations.

Online Payment

• Most counties offer online payment options through their court websites.
• You will likely need your citation number and driver's license number.
• Acceptable forms of payment usually include credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover) and debit cards.
• Double-check the website address to ensure it's a legitimate government website to avoid scams. Look for ".gov" in the address.

Payment by Mail

• Make your check or money order payable to the "Commonwealth of Pennsylvania" or the specific court listed on your citation. Do not send cash.
• Write your citation number clearly on your check or money order.
• Mail your payment to the address provided on the traffic citation. This is typically the court address.
• Keep a copy of your citation and payment for your records.

In-Person Payment

• Visit the court location listed on your citation during business hours.
• Acceptable forms of payment vary by court but generally include cash, checks, money orders, and sometimes credit/debit cards.
• Confirm acceptable payment methods before visiting the court.
• Be prepared to present your citation to the clerk.

Avoiding Points and Higher Fees

While paying the citation avoids further legal action regarding the citation itself, it does not automatically avoid points on your driving record or increased insurance premiums. Here's what you need to know:

The Impact of Points

• Accumulating too many points on your Pennsylvania driving record can lead to license suspension.
• Points remain on your record for a certain period of time, even after your license is reinstated.
• Certain violations carry more points than others.
• Your insurance company will review your driving record and points, which could increase your insurance rates.

Potential Mitigation Strategies

Important Note: The following are potential strategies and may not be applicable in all situations. Seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney is highly recommended.

• Plea Bargaining (Negotiation): In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser offense that carries fewer or no points. This usually involves consulting with a traffic lawyer.
  • This is more likely if your driving record is clean and you are not a repeat offender.
• Traffic School (If Eligible): Pennsylvania doesn't typically offer traffic school as a standard option for reducing points in all situations, but it may be an option in some counties for certain violations. Inquire with the court.
• Contesting the Citation: You have the right to contest the citation in court. This involves presenting evidence and arguing your case before a judge. If you successfully challenge the citation, you may avoid the fine and any associated points.
  • This option may require the assistance of an attorney.
• Paying the Fine (Considerations): Directly paying the fine is an admission of guilt and will result in points if the violation carries them.

Important Consideration Table:

Check the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Website

• The official PennDOT website provides detailed information about points, license suspensions, and traffic laws.
• Refer to PennDOT's website for the most up-to-date information and regulations.

Keeping Records

Regardless of how you choose to pay your citation, maintain thorough records.

• Keep a copy of your citation.
• Keep a copy of your payment confirmation (online receipt, canceled check, etc.).
• If you negotiate a plea bargain or attend traffic school, keep documentation related to these activities.

This information is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

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Navigating the commonwealth of pennsylvania traffic citation payment can seem tricky, but hopefully, this helped! Just remember to explore your options and handle things promptly to avoid those extra fees and points. Drive safe out there!