What is the statute of limitations for a traffic ticket?

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for a traffic ticket depends on the type of violation. For a minor traffic violation, such as speeding, the statute of limitations is six months. That means you have six months from the date of the violation to either pay the fine or contest the ticket in court. More serious traffic violations such as reckless driving and operating under the influence have a statute of limitations of three years. That means you have three years from the date of the violation to either pay the fine or contest the ticket in court. Other violations such as refusing to take a breathalyzer or a chemical test have a five-year statute of limitations. That means you have five years from the date of the violation to either pay the fine or contest the ticket in court. If you fail to take action within the applicable statute of limitations, the traffic ticket will be considered a default judgment, and the civil penalty may be increased. In addition, the judge may impose additional penalties, and the violation may be reported to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. As always, it is important to read the ticket closely and take the necessary action as soon as possible in order to avoid a default judgment.

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What is the statute of limitations for a traffic ticket?

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