Passing a School Bus Ticket Lawyer Elizabeth, NJ

Passing a School Bus Ticket Attorney Elizabeth, NJ

Receiving a ticket for passing a stopped school bus is a serious matter in Elizabeth, New Jersey. It carries hefty fines, points on your license, potential license suspension, and the stigma of jeopardizing children’s safety. If you’ve been issued this type of ticket in Elizabeth, NJ, it’s crucial to understand your rights and legal options.

Secure Your Defense With Brett M. Rosen, Esq.

Understanding the Seriousness: Passing a Stopped School Bus

New Jersey law (NJSA 39:4-128.1) mandates that drivers stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and stop-arm is extended. This applies to all vehicles traveling in both directions, unless there is a physical divider like a median. Failing to stop carries severe consequences:

Penalties:

• Fines: Range from $100 to $250 for a first offense.
• Points: 5 points added to your driving record.
• License Suspension: Possible 30-day suspension for a first offense, increasing with subsequent offenses.
• Community Service: The court may order community service, especially if the violation involved a close call or endangered a child.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Your insurance rates could rise significantly.

Defenses Against a Passing a School Bus Ticket

While the law is strict, there are potential defenses that an experienced attorney can explore:

• Visibility Issues: If the bus driver failed to activate the red lights or extend the stop-arm in a timely manner, or if your view was obstructed by other vehicles or weather conditions, it could serve as a defense.
• Faulty Equipment: If the bus’s warning lights or stop-arm were malfunctioning, you might have a valid defense.
• Mistaken Identity: If the officer mistakenly identified your vehicle, your attorney can challenge the ticket.
• Officer Error: If the officer was not in a position to accurately observe the violation or misjudged the situation, your attorney can raise this as a defense.

Why Choose Brett M. Rosen, Esq.?

Facing a passing a school bus ticket can be daunting. Here’s how Brett M. Rosen, Esq. can help:

• In-depth Knowledge of Traffic Laws: He possesses a comprehensive understanding of New Jersey traffic laws and court procedures.
• Meticulous Case Evaluation: He will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your ticket, including witness statements, police reports, and the location of the incident.
• Strong Negotiation Skills: He will negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charges, or to minimize the penalties.
• Courtroom Experience: If necessary, he will represent you in court, presenting a compelling defense and advocating for your rights.
• Protecting Your Driving Record: He will work diligently to minimize the impact of the ticket on your driving record, potentially saving you from points, license suspension, and increased insurance premiums.

FAQs About Passing a School Bus Tickets in Elizabeth, New Jersey

1. What should I do if I receive a ticket for passing a stopped school bus?

   Contact an attorney immediately. Don’t simply pay the fine without first exploring your legal options and understanding the potential consequences.

2. Is it ever legal to pass a stopped school bus?

   Yes, only if there is a physical divider, like a median, separating the lanes of traffic. In all other cases, you must stop when the red lights are flashing and the stop-arm is extended.

3. What if I didn’t see the school bus’s flashing lights?

   Unfortunately, “I didn’t see the lights” is generally not a valid defense. Drivers are expected to be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution, especially in areas where children are present.

4. Can I get a passing a school bus ticket dismissed?

   It’s possible to get the ticket dismissed if you have a strong defense or if the prosecutor agrees to drop the charges. An experienced attorney can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

5. How can I avoid getting a ticket for passing a stopped school bus?

   Always be vigilant and watch for school buses, especially during school hours. When you see a school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop-arm, come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the lights are turned off and the stop-arm is retracted.

FAQs Continued

• How will a passing a school bus ticket affect my insurance rates?

  • This violation is considered serious and will likely result in a significant increase in your auto insurance premiums.

• What if I was unaware that I passed a stopped school bus?

  • Unfortunately, lack of awareness is not a valid defense. It’s your responsibility as a driver to be aware of your surroundings and obey all traffic laws, including stopping for school buses.

• Can I fight a passing a school bus ticket?

  • Yes, you have the right to contest the ticket in court. An attorney can help you build a strong defense and represent you in court.

• Will I have to go to court for a passing a school bus ticket?

  • If you plead not guilty, you will likely have to appear in court for a trial or a plea hearing. However, your attorney may be able to handle some court appearances on your behalf.

• What if I was passing the bus on the opposite side of a divided highway?

  • In New Jersey, you are still required to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights even if you are on the opposite side of a divided highway.

Don’t Face a Passing a School Bus Ticket in Elizabeth Alone!

A ticket for passing a stopped school bus in Elizabeth, New Jersey is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences. Don’t risk your driving privileges or your finances. Contact Brett M. Rosen, Esq., today for a free consultation. He will provide you with the experienced and dedicated representation you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.  

908-312-0368 & brett@nynjcriminalcivilesq.com