Expert: Mark C. Robins - 10/26/2006

Question
the address is on jasper ave and 103 street.

as well, do you know if the demerits hurt the insurance or is it the conviction?  Im thinking of getting my demerits reduced (via traffic lawyer), but if it the conviction affects the insurance, then I might  as well just see if i can have my fines reduced when I talk to the first prosecutor....instead of paying an extra 200 to get the lawyer...

thanks so  much!

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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi mark!

I have a question regarding illegal U-turns.  I was caught with making an illegal turn at an intersection in Edmonton, AB.    I actually didn't U-turn at the intersection, per se, I did it before the intersection (about half a block away).  I sincerely didn't know that it wasn't allowed.  The police was a block behind me when I did the U-turn, so I think they thought I did it at the intersection.

Can you tell me if that is illegal, to make a U turn half a block before intersection?

As well as I am looking at my ticket, it said that my violation is "30(a) - making a turn in an intersection." Do they actually have to put where I made the violation ie:  the street or area?  or is the section number and violation description good enough?

do you think I can dispute the ticket and maybe (a big maybe) void it?)

I'm worried about my insurance, I have driven for 8 years, and have never been pulled over or even radar.  I know its 2 demerits, and 115 dollars in fine.  I can live without the $115, but I don't want a tarnish driving record. :(

thank you for taking the time to answer my questions...
-----Answer-----
To answer this question I would need actual street info and a map of the area.
However it is always wise to fight any traffic ticket..

Answer
I am not familiar with Alberta Traffic law, however I would suggest that you challenge the charge based on the section you provided.
As to your second question , yes demerit points will raise your insurance as will non points charges and convictions.
SO as I stated earlier it is wise to fight all tickets , the officer may not show up and the case would be dismissed, or you can approach the Crown and try to get a reduction in the charge based on your argument.
Either way it is better to fight then just pay.
sorry I was not able to give you more specific info, if you need legal representation you can use a free referral service like lawyerlocate.ca