Converting traffic tickets

This article addresses converting traffic tickets in Israel. Many drivers are shocked to discover that they have been issued a ticket for a time or place when they weren’t driving the vehicle. In some cases, the person who has been issued the ticket was abroad, or their type of driver’s license does not even match the type of vehicle which they are alleged to have driven. If you have received such a ticket that is meant for someone else, it is important to consult an Israeli lawyer who specializes in traffic law.

Such erroneous traffic tickets generally happen when the driver does not physically receive the report from a police officer. In most cases, the source of the erroneous ticket is an automated police speed camera, and these are often found across the country. In this case, there is no way to account for who is driving the vehicle, only who is registered as the owner. The ticket can be converted (re-issued) to the correct driver, provided both the subject of the ticket and the actual driver present provide an authenticated statement to the authorities.

It is important to consider the logic behind the request when you submit a traffic ticket conversion application. While it will usually suffice to go to court with two affidavits (one for the driver who erroneously received the report and one for the driver who actually drove the vehicle), there is also the possibility that the police will investigate whether the “actual” driver (according to the affidavit) could not have been driving the vehicle in practice (was abroad, in jail, sick, etc.).

At our law offices, we have lawyers who specialize in dealing with traffic offenses, instances of drivers driving without a license, and all matters related to traffic laws and courts.

In principle, the offending driver must admit in writing to the court or the police that in fact, they were the party that committed the offense or used the vehicle during the commission of the offense (the use of the vehicle does not necessarily constitute an admission of guilt).

How Can I Convert a Traffic Ticket for an Offense that I did not Commit?

You must submit an application to the Israel Police or to the relevant court.
The affidavit of the offending driver must be attached to the application, wherein the offending driver confesses to (1) driving the vehicle during the commission of the offense, or (2) confesses to the offense itself (the wording of the affidavit is key). The affidavit must be signed before a lawyer.
We recommend that the party who was erroneously issued the ticket also submit an affidavit.
Submit a copy of the original traffic ticket.
Submit copies of the personal identification of both parties.
Submit a copy of the driver’s license of the driver who committed the offense.

It is safe to assume that the violation is likely to be transferred to the person who actually committed it, but each application is examined separately, with differing results.

If you Received a Speed Ticket from a Police Camera, You Have Several Options

Pay the fine within 90 days. You will be considered as having pled guilty and willing to accept your punishment. The result will be that points will be recorded on your driver’s license.
You can apply for a trial within 90 days if you are sure you did not commit the offense at hand.
You can request a conversion of the ticket to the driver who actually committed the violation, within 90 days of having been issued the ticket. If successful, this will cancel your fine.

What Happens if I am late on the 90-day Limit on Converting Traffic Tickets?

Section 230 of the Criminal Procedure, 1982 includes the right to request an extension of time. An application can be submitted for an extension of time to file a request for trial. The applicant must present an appropriate and justifiable reason to the court as to why they did not submit the request for trial within the original 90 days.

The applicant must demonstrate that if the judgment is not set aside, it will cause them harm and be an unreliable and unfair application of justice. The application will hinge on whether a failure to set aside the judgment and grant the applicant more time will lead to a distortion of justice. There must be something to justify the application for an extension.

Contact Us – Converting Traffic Tickets in Israel

Our law offices specialize in many legal fields, including all matters related to traffic violations, traffic law, and representing clients before traffic courts. Our firm consistently delivers positive results for clients through our specialized team of lawyers. By taking the time to consider every possibility and conducting due diligence, our law office can help you navigate your legal journey and obtain the best possible outcome.

If you have received a ticket for a traffic violation you have not committed and need assistance with converting traffic tickets, please contact us. We would be happy to assist you and provide you with a no-obligation initial consultation to better understand your unique situation.