What Type of Evidence Do You Need to Dispute a Traffic Ticket in Georgia?
Receiving a traffic ticket in Georgia may seem like a minor inconvenience—but paying it without a fight can have long-term consequences. Depending on the violation, you could face increased insurance premiums, points on your license, and even license suspension. Fortunately, you do have the right to contest a traffic citation. The key to successfully disputing a traffic ticket lies in the evidence.
If you want to increase your chances of beating a ticket in court, here’s a breakdown of the types of evidence that can help your case from The Spizman Firm.
- Photographic or Video Evidence
Photos or videos from your dashboard camera (dashcam), cellphone, or a nearby traffic camera can be extremely helpful. Visual evidence can contradict the officer’s version of events—such as whether you ran a red light, made a complete stop, or changed lanes improperly.
If you have a dashcam, make sure to preserve the footage right away. If you believe a red-light camera or intersection surveillance may have captured the event, your attorney may be able to subpoena that footage.
- Witness Testimony
Passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who witnessed the alleged offense can provide statements to support your case. For example, if a witness can confirm that you signaled before turning or stopped completely at a stop sign, their testimony may contradict the officer’s claim.
Make sure your witness is willing to testify in court or provide a signed, notarized statement if they can’t attend.
- Officer’s Notes and Ticket Details
Carefully examine the ticket you received for any errors. Typos, incorrect locations, wrong vehicle information, or inconsistencies in the officer’s notes may weaken the prosecution’s case. Your attorney can request a copy of the officer’s notes or the citation report during discovery.
These details could be used to cast doubt on the accuracy or reliability of the charge.
- Traffic Conditions and Diagrams
Sketches or diagrams of the intersection or road can help illustrate the context of the incident. These are especially helpful if the ticket was issued based on a judgment call—like failing to yield or improper lane usage.
You can also include traffic signs, signals, visibility conditions, and obstructions that may have played a role. For instance, a poorly placed stop sign or overgrown vegetation may have impacted your ability to respond appropriately.
- Expert Testimony
In more serious cases, such as those involving speeding or traffic accidents, an expert (like an accident reconstructionist or traffic engineer) may be able to testify on your behalf. While this isn’t necessary for every ticket, it can be a powerful tool when disputing complex or high-stakes charges.
Let The Spizman Firm Help You Fight Your Ticket
Successfully disputing a traffic ticket in Georgia requires more than just showing up and hoping for the best. With the right evidence and our Atlanta traffic ticket defense attorneys, you can fight back and protect your driving record.
At The Spizman Firm, we help clients challenge traffic tickets and criminal charges across Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you build a strong defense.
