What Is Improper Equipment in North Carolina?

Improper Equipment is a non-moving violation in North  Carolina.  The primary example of an improper equipment violation would be a defective speedometer. In most instances pleading a moving violation to an improper equipment is highly advantageous because it converts a moving violation to a non-moving violation.  Obviously, if your case can be dismissed that is the best result, but dismissals are rare on traffic citations except for a few special circumstances type violations. 

The North Carolina Legislature, under Chapter 20, now provides that an improper equipment outcome is a lesser-included offense to speeding.  There is no need to actually have an "equipment" problem or vehicle equipment issue to receive an "improper outcome" outcome.  An Improper Equipment outcome is merely an available plea result that is available in many (if not most) counties in the state of North Carolina.  It is in the discretion of the district attorney in each county (or more accurately each North Carolina Judicial District) to reduce speeding charges to an improper equipment.

To determine if an Improper Equipment is available in the County in which you have been charged, please a submission through this web site and your request will be forwarded to a local attorney who has familiarity with the local policies regarding Improper Equipments and other traffic related matters.