If you’ve been ticketed for speeding, you’re probably wondering: “Does hiring a speeding ticket lawyer make sense?”
Let me speak from experience—yes, it often does due to the auto insurance premium increase of 30 to 32%.
We can speak from experience due to our decade of experience defending California drivers in traffic court. We’ve seen many drivers try to defend themselves with varying degrees of success.
We have often seen well-meaning drivers self-destruct when questioned by the judge directly.
When asked if they were speeding, we’ve heard people say, “Yes, I was going a little over the speed limit, but I was just keeping up with traffic.”
Invariably, the judge will say, “Guilty, pay the court clerk on your way out.”
We’ve had clients ask us, “You said, it’s just a $360 fine for 20 mph over. Why should we pay you more to dispute our ticket?” Because the fine is just the beginning.
The DMV will assess negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points, which when your insurance provider discover these at renewal, they will raise your rates, significantly.
Why It’s Not Just About the Fine
Paying the fine for the speeding ticket might seem easier. But the long-term hit to your wallet? That’s the real cost.
One point on your MVR means insurance could spike 30–32%.
You lose your “20% good driver” discount—worth about $850 annually for three years (for full coverage in CA).
That adds up to over $2,500 extra in insurance premiums.
Remember, these are average prices. Drivers in Fresno County pay much less than those in LA or SF.
The number are even worse for families with teenagers on their policy:
“California parents adding a 16-year-old driver to their full coverage auto insurance policy can expect an averagepremium of $6,967 per year.”—Bankrate.com.
And premiums vary widely:
A Fresno driver typically pays $2,762 for full coverage in 2025, while someone in Los Angeles pays closer to $4,063.
So, yes—when people ask, “Does hiring a speeding ticket lawyer make sense?” We answer, “Not hiring a traffic attorney could cost you much more.”
What a Speeding Ticket Lawyer Can Do For You
Here’s what we tell our clients. Court is the easy part, we do more than just show up for court. Preparation is the key to getting the best results.
Possible Tactics Include:
Subpoena the officer’s training records and device calibration logs.
Dispute the accuracy of RADAR, LIDAR, or pacing methods.
Identify procedural mistakes that can get your case dismissed.
Negotiate reduced penalties or keep points off your motor vehicle driving record (MVR).
Request Traffic Violator School (TVS) attendance from the judge when your speed would typically disqualify you.
In most cases, you won’t even need to appear in court.
The Benefits of Hiring a Speeding Ticket Attorney in Fresno County
Here are five consideration for why working with a speeding ticket attorney matters:
We know the Fresno County court.
We speak directly with judges and clerks frequently.
We protect your license and reputation from long-term damage.
We help keep your record clean and your insurance premiums down.
We make the process less stressful and more effective.
We’ve helped hundreds of Fresno County and Central Valley drivers just like you. If you've been cited for speeding, let’s talk. We’ll review your case and explain your best options.
Don't take the risk alone. A speeding ticket attorney may be your smartest move.
Consult One of Bigger & Harman’s Fresno County Speeding Ticket Lawyers
If you are considering hiring a speeding ticket lawyer to dispute your ticket in Fresno Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300 — Se habla Español 349-9755.
Use our convenient contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.