Time to answer some questions from readers. Send yours to jewoldt@startribune.com.
Q Is there a way to avoid having a speeding ticket or other traffic violation go on my driving record?
A This has been a common question recently. And, yes, there is a way to keep a traffic violation such as a speeding ticket from being reported to your insurance agency.
It's called a "continuance for dismissal" (CFD). You usually have to see a hearing officer to qualify. Go to the address listed on the back of the ticket or call for information. Expect to wait in line, often more than an hour, although you might be able to make an appointment for a future time.
Not everyone qualifies for a continuance. Generally, you can't have been cited for driving more than 15 to 20 miles per hour above the speed limit. You must have a driving record without violations for one to three years, depending on the prosecuting guidelines where you received the ticket. The petty moving violation must not have involved an accident, and no other continuances can be pending.
After you receive a continuance, you must remain ticket-free for one year, or the new and the old violations will be reported to insurance companies. Twenty-two percent of those who received petty misdemeanors in Ramsey County suburbs and saw a hearing officer received a CFD disposition, said Mona Ross, court operations manager of the suburban branch in Ramsey County.
Some cities charge extra ($70 in addition to the amount of the ticket in Hopkins, for example) for the benefit of the violation not going on your record, said Wynn Curtiss, a city prosecutor in Hopkins.
Some municipalities, such as New Brighton and Mounds View, don't allow continuances, but the list is growing smaller. Eden Prairie, Richfield, North Oaks and Little Canada now allow continuances. Offering them is one way to unclog the courts, Curtiss said.
