Can I lodge an objection against a fine notice?
January 19, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Hildegard Falk
Dear lawyer,
I am contacting you with a question regarding traffic law. A few weeks ago, I received a fine in which I was accused of running a red light. I was sure that the light was still yellow when I crossed the intersection. Nevertheless, I was fined 200 euros and received a point in Flensburg.
I am very concerned about the consequences of this fine, as I have never been in trouble with the law before and my driver's license is essential for my profession. I have already spoken to some friends who advised me to appeal the fine. However, I am unsure if this is even possible in my case and if it would have a chance of success.
So my question to you is: Can I appeal against the fine, and what are the chances of success? Are there specific deadlines I need to be aware of, and what documentation should I have ready for the appeal?
I thank you in advance for your assistance and look forward to your assessment of my situation.
Sincerely,
Louis Blumberg
Dear Mr. Blumberg,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the fine notice you have received. It is understandable that you are concerned about the consequences, especially if your driver's license is essential for your profession. I would like to assist you in clarifying your situation.
Firstly, it is important to know that you have the right to appeal against a fine notice if you believe it has been issued unjustly. In your case, where you state that the traffic light was still yellow when you crossed the intersection, it could be worthwhile to make an appeal.
To increase your chances of success, it is important that you substantiate your arguments well and, if necessary, present evidence. For example, if you have witnesses who can confirm that the traffic light was still yellow, you should name them and possibly obtain a written statement from them.
Regarding deadlines, you generally have to file an appeal within 14 days of receiving the fine notice. Therefore, it is important that you take prompt action to file the appeal and not miss the deadline.
For the appeal, you should have all relevant documents ready to support your arguments. These include the fine notice itself, any witness statements, photos or videos from the scene of the incident, and any other documents that could prove your innocence.
I strongly recommend that you contact an experienced traffic law attorney promptly to assist you in formulating the appeal. An attorney can help you not only with the legal assessment but also with gathering the necessary evidence and professionally justifying the appeal.
I hope this information is helpful to you and wish you success in resolving your matter. If you have any further questions or need my assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Hildegard Falk
Traffic Law Attorney
