What If I Was Cited for a Traffic Violation but Wasn’t at Fault?
Many drivers worry that receiving a traffic citation automatically means they are at fault for an accident. In reality, a traffic citation does not determine legal liability for a car accident. Even if you were cited, you may still have a strong personal injury claim if you were not responsible for causing the crash.
Why Traffic Citations Don’t Always Determine Fault
Police officers often issue citations based on the accounts of the drivers involved, rather than direct observation of the accident. These are sometimes “he said, she said” situations, and officers may not witness the events firsthand.
People at the scene may unintentionally—or intentionally—misstate what happened. The officer may rely on their version of events, leading to a citation even if you were not at fault. Receiving a ticket is not the same as being legally responsible for causing injuries or damages.
How Attorneys Handle Citation Disputes
An experienced personal injury attorney knows how to protect your rights even if you have a citation. They can:
Gather statements from witnesses
Obtain and review the police report thoroughly
Depose witnesses if necessary
Collect evidence such as photos, surveillance footage, or accident reconstructions
Challenge inaccurate claims in court
Your lawyer can demonstrate that the citation does not reflect the actual cause of the accident, giving you the best chance to recover damages.
Insurance Companies and Traffic Citations
Insurance companies often look at citations as a factor in determining liability. However, a citation alone does not control the value of your claim. Your attorney can fight insurance denials and ensure the focus is on actual fault and evidence, not the ticket.
Why You Still Need a Jury or Legal Representation
Ultimately, liability for a car accident is determined by the evidence and the jury, not a traffic citation. If your case goes to court, the jury will consider all facts, witness testimony, and expert analysis.
Having an attorney who understands how to document the case, present evidence, and advocate for your version of events can be the difference between receiving fair compensation or being unfairly penalized.
