If you have received a traffic ticket in Indiana, you may have two options for resolving it: taking a defensive driving course or choosing deferred disposition. In this article, we will explore these two options and help you determine which one is best for your situation.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving courses are intended to explain new drivers how to avoid road accidents and traffic violations by being more aware of their surroundings and making safer decisions while on the road. In Indiana, taking a defensive driving course can help you dismiss a traffic ticket.
Eligibility for a defensive driving course:
- Not have taken a defensive driving course in the past 12 months.
- Not have received a ticket for a moving violation while operating a commercial vehicle.
- Not have a CDL (commercial driver’s license).
Once you have enrolled in a defensive driving course, you will need to complete it within 90 days and provide proof of completion to the court handling your ticket. After completing the course, the court will dismiss your ticket, and no points will be added to your driving record.
Deferred Disposition
Deferred disposition is another option for resolving a traffic ticket in Indiana. This option allows you to delay the resolution of your ticket for a specified period of time, usually 90 days. During this period, you must not receive any additional moving violations. If you comply with the conditions of deferred disposition, the court will dismiss your ticket, and no points will be added to your driving record.
To be eligible for deferred disposition:
- Not have received a ticket for a moving violation while operating a commercial vehicle.
- Not have taken advantage of deferred disposition in the past 12 months.
If you do receive another moving violation during the period of deferred disposition, the court will proceed with prosecution of your original ticket, and points will be added to your driving record.
You may also read: Driver’s Permit Rules for Young and New Drivers in Indiana
Which option is best for you?
The best selection for you will depend on your specific conditions. If you are eligible for both options, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each before making a decision.
Defensive driving courses can be a good option for those who want to learn about safe driving habits and avoid future traffic violations. The courses can be taken online or in a classroom, and they typically take 4-6 hours to complete. If you are busy and don’t have time to attend a classroom course, an online course may be a better option.
You may also read: 7 Driving Techniques to Improve Visibility on the Road and Stay Safe
Deferred disposition is a good option for those who want to delay the resolution of their ticket and avoid having points added to their driving record. If you are confident that you can avoid receiving another moving violation during the period of deferred disposition, this option may be right for you.
It’s important to keep in mind that choosing either defensive driving or deferred disposition does not guarantee that your ticket will be dismissed. If you fail to comply with the conditions of either option, the court may proceed with prosecution of your ticket and add points to your driving record.
Conclusion:
If you have received a traffic ticket in Indiana, you have two options for resolving it: taking a defensive driving course or choosing deferred disposition. Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual circumstances.
You may also read: 4 Common Causes of Distracted Driving and How to Avoid them?
Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to be aware of the conditions and requirements for each. If you have any questions and doubts about defensive driving or deferred disposition, be sure to speak with a qualified traffic attorney or the court handling your ticket.