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A police officer issuing a traffic ticket to a driver in a red sports car.

The 5 Most Common Questions About Traffic Tickets in BC (and Why You Might Want a Lawyer)

Getting a traffic ticket in British Columbia can feel like a punch to the gut—and to your wallet. You might be wondering, “What do I do now?” Don’t worry; you’re not alone.

Here are the five most common questions I get about traffic tickets in BC, along with some honest advice about why you might want a lawyer on your side.

1. Can I Dispute My Traffic Ticket?

    Absolutely, you can dispute your ticket. In fact, BC gives you 30 days to file a Notice of Dispute. You can do this online, by mail, or the old-school way: in person at a courthouse or any ICBC licensing office.

    But here’s the thing: disputing a ticket isn’t as simple as showing up and saying, “I didn’t do it!” The police officer who issued the ticket is likely to be there, armed with notes and ready to testify.

    Do you know how to cross-examine an officer or challenge evidence? No?

    That’s where a lawyer comes in. We know how to spot procedural errors, argue technicalities, and build a defence that can get your ticket reduced—or thrown out entirely.

    2. What Happens If I Don’t Pay or Dispute the Ticket?

    Short answer: bad things. If you ignore your ticket, it’s considered an admission of guilt after 30 days. That means you’ll automatically have to pay the fine, and it’ll go on your driving record. Plus, you might get hit with extra fees or even a driving prohibition if you rack up too many points.

    The moral of the story? Don’t let the government steamroll you. A lawyer can help ensure you don’t get saddled with unnecessary fines or penalties. Sometimes, we can even negotiate on your behalf to avoid points or a license suspension.

    3. How Does a Traffic Ticket Affect My Driving Record and Insurance?

    Here’s the kicker: traffic tickets in BC not only cost you the fine amount, but they also come with driver penalty points, which stick to your record just like glitter to a craft project. Accumulate enough points, and you’re looking at higher insurance premiums or even a driving prohibition.

    But wait, there’s more! ICBC loves to use tickets as an excuse to bump up your insurance costs. Fighting the ticket with a lawyer not only helps you contest the charges but also can prevent those points from hitting your record in the first place. We know how to argue your case in ways that can save you from years of higher insurance bills.

    4. Should I Hire a Lawyer to Fight My Traffic Ticket?

    Okay, let’s be honest: most people think, It’s just a ticket—do I really need a lawyer?

    Well, let’s look at the stakes. If you’re facing a ticket for something like excessive speeding, distracted driving, or failing to stop at a red light, the fines and points add up quickly. Plus, some tickets can lead to immediate driving prohibitions.

    A lawyer knows how to challenge the evidence against you. We can argue that the radar reading was inaccurate, that the officer didn’t follow procedure, or even that your case deserves leniency. Moreover, even if you think you’re guilty, in many cases, a lawyer can still get your penalties reduced significantly.

    5. What Happens If I’m Caught Using an Electronic Device While Driving?

    Distracted driving tickets are the new cash cow for ICBC, with fines starting at $368 and four points on your record. Get caught a second time, and you’re looking at a high risk driving premium and a driving prohibition.

    Here’s where it gets tricky: the definition of “using an electronic device” is broad.

    Checking the time? Illegal. Picking up your phone to move it? Illegal. You need someone who understands the law and can argue your case effectively. A lawyer can often show that the officer’s evidence doesn’t hold up, or at the very least, negotiate for a reduced penalty.

    Don’t Go It Alone

    Traffic tickets might seem like a minor inconvenience, but in reality, they can snowball into major headaches if you’re not careful. For instance, higher insurance premiums, demerit points, and driving prohibitions—it’s all on the table. Of course, hiring a lawyer might cost you upfront, but the potential savings in fines, insurance, and stress ultimately make it worth it.

    So, next time you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror, don’t panic. Take a deep breath, call a lawyer, and let us handle the rest.

    This blog post is written to educate and entertain, but it’s not legal advice. If you need help with a traffic ticket, give us a call!