Multiple traffic tickets could lead to a driver’s license suspension if the driver does not handle them with care. 

We understand that seeing those flashing lights in the rearview mirror on I-5 or SR-99 is stressful. Many people feel tempted to pay the fine and move on with their lives. 

However, in this blog post, we will explain why that choice might be more expensive in the long run.

Why Every Point Matters in Kern County, CA

Each conviction for a traffic ticket adds one DMV NOTS point to a motor vehicle record. 

These points remain visible to the public, including the driver’s insurance provider, for three years or more. This is a major concern because insurance companies check these records frequently. When a driver has multiple traffic tickets, the financial burden grows quickly.

According to Bankrate.com, the average Bakersfield driver will pay $2,925 for full coverage auto insurance premiums in 2026 and likely more in 2027. 

A single conviction for a minor infraction, such as speeding, running a red light or stop sign, or a second cell phone use paid ticket, can increase that amount by roughly 32% if the driver loses their "good driver discount." 

The idea of fighting multiple traffic tickets in the Mojave or Shafter Courthouse by yourself might sound like the most cost-effective method, but it could lead to a significant increase in your auto insurance that could add $936 annually to the average Bakersfield driver’s premiums for up to 3 years, totaling $2,808 or more.

According to that same website, a family with a teen on their policy will pay $6,725.50 per year for full coverage insurance in Bakersfield. That’s 130% above the California average. Adding another 32% after a paid fine could add another $2,152 per year making their total expense for insurance $8,877.50. 

The Risks of Self-Representation for Multiple Traffic Tickets

It is natural to want to save money by self-representing in court. 

However, we have seen drivers get very nervous with stage fright in front of a judge. The Lamont Courthouse in Kern County, CA, could see dozens of traffic cases every single day. Therefore, a driver might only have a few minutes to present their case to the judge.

Without a traffic lawyer, a driver might accidentally admit to the violation. For instance, telling a judge they were "just keeping up with traffic" on SR-99 is an admission of speeding. 

The judge might simply say, “Guilty, pay the court clerk $360 on your way out.” This creates a mark against the driver’s record that leads to higher premiums for years.

How Professional Guidance Could Protect the Driver’s Reputation & Budget

We work hard to find ways to keep tickets off your driving record. This is more difficult with multiple traffic tickets, but we’ve defended more than 30,000 traffic tickets during the past decade.

This might involve asking for a non-moving violation or seeking a dismissal. 

If the driver was going 25 mph over the limit, they cannot go to traffic school without a judge’s permission. We can request that authorization.

• Avoid the 32% average insurance hike.
• Protect the 20% good driver discount.
• Keep the driver on the road and out of court.

Contact Bigger & Harman About Confidently Handling Multiple Traffic Tickets

Facing multiple traffic tickets requires a strategic approach to avoid a driver’s license suspension and much higher insurance premiums. 

We focus on helping drivers navigate the complexities of traffic court without the stress. Our team is in court daily, observing how local judges handle various cases. 

This experience allows us to provide a strong defense for the driver.

If the driver receives a citation near Bakersfield, consulting a traffic lawyer is a wise step. Call us today at (661) 349-9300 to discuss the situation—859-1177 para Español.

You can also email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our secure website contact form to set up a consultation about resolving your traffic ticket in Bakersfield Courthouse. 

We also represent Kern County drivers in the Delano and Ridgecrest Courthouses

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Q: Can a traffic lawyer help if I was speeding on I-5 or SR-99?

A: Yes, a speeding ticket lawyer can sometimes negotiate a no-point conviction with a fine only, approval of traffic school when your speed was too fast, and they often represent the driver without their appearance in court so that the driver can go to work or school as normal. Plus we can often beat your ticket!

Q: Can I use traffic school for multiple traffic tickets?

A: No, a driver is only allowed to use Traffic Violator School (TVS) to mask or keep confidential one traffic ticket within an 18-month period. It can only be for a minor infraction, and the driver must plead guilty, pay the full fine, and complete TVS before the court-ordered date. There are other restrictions, so discuss attendance with a traffic lawyer before pleading guilty and paying the fine. 

Q: How much does a conviction really cost in Kern County, CA?

A: The fine is generally only one-fourth of the total cost, and an insurance increase for even a minor infraction can total over $2,800 for three years the record of conviction will remain.

References:

The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.

The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2026.