Just received traffic infraction that happened over 2 yrs ago. Can some one please advise if this is right.?

Question

We live in WA. state. On Aug. 3,2006 my husband was involved in a pile-up on the freeway, there was a car that stopped dead on the freeway and he was the second on the pile-up.

He asked the WASP if there is a ticket. He told him not to worry about it.

The date on the paper we received is Au. 28,2008 with a copy of the ticket. You can't make out what the infraction is. Just to pay $153.00. Or contest it etc. by 15 days.

We have no experience with this. He's driven over 35 yrs with no infractions. Is this normal to wait over 2 yrs? Should he contest it? In regards to insurance it has been over two yrs since the accident. How do they apply the record on your insurance? Should my husband call his agent and tell him? Any advise is appreciated.

Answer 1

Talk to your lawyer about this.  

Answer 2

your story sounds made up. no one issues you a ticket for something that happened two years ago.i do not care how you talk around the subject this is made up bs.no department and i mean no department issues a citation two years after the infraction.this is just plain a made up story.

------------retired texas deputy sheriff-----------

Answer 3

Sounds like it's your fault.  Odd that the ticket took so long.  If you rear end someone it's automatically your fault even if someone stops dead in their tracks because you should not be following so closely in the first place.  However, if your husband hit the guy in front because someone else hit  you (so you slid) then there might be grounds to contest.  But, that might not work because you should have an appropriate following distance between you and the car in front.

I suggest the you call your insurance agent and find out what to do/what will happen.  Explain the situation, maybe they can help you contest if they're grounds for it.  

Answer 4

I would pay the fine and not tell the insurance company, You don't need to s***w up a 35 year good record, A violation can stay on file for years till its paid, when you husband renews his license it will show up and he will have to pay or no renewal.  

Answer 5

You should contest it, and go to the courthouse to see the original, then file a motion to dismiss claiming that the charge is barred by the statute of limitations.  No state allows a 2 year delay in bringing a misdemeanor traffic charge, but it is up to you to assert the defense.  The judge is not authorized to do it for you.  Yes, you should notify your insurer.