National Motorists Association Foundation
NMA Foundation Goals
Groundbreaking Research
Most current studies are funded or conducted by those with ties to the safety lobby and government officials who believe that harsher enforcement is the solution to all traffic problems. The NMA Foundation will be a voice of reason.
There is no better way to seek accountability from groups using dubious research claims than by producing our own sound findings.
Our research programs will demonstrate how rational traffic laws based on proven engineering principles can improve the safety of the motoring public. Heavy-handed enforcement methods, such as photo radar or red light cameras, cannot compete with the efficacy of sound engineering.
Invaluable Educational Materials
There is a substantial lack of quality educational materials geared towards motorists. The NMAF will fill this void.
The foundation is already leading the way in providing useful information for all motorists who need to defend themselves against an unjust traffic ticket. The foundation's Legal Defense Kit is the preeminent resource for anyone faced with the prospect of his or her "day in court."
The foundation's educational materials also seek to promote driver-to-driver courtesy and cooperation.
Fighting for All Motorists
For over 20 years the NMA has been advocating for motorists' rights. The National Motorists Association Foundation takes the next step in this fight.
Through litigation we are challenging unfair traffic laws and state limitations on a motorist's right to an adequate defense. We are fighting for you!
A citizen's right to due process, as laid out in the United States Constitution, is under constant threat from governing bodies. Due process guarantees a person's right to a fair trial, an impartial jury, and to testify in one's own defense. Too often, motorists are denied these rights when governments seek to enforce traffic laws.
Many jurisdictions throughout the United States fail to afford motorists the most basic of protections, such as trial by jury or the ability to request discovery (a method to gather information critical to a person's defense).
Wisconsin Laser Use
For years, the foundation has wanted to challenge the admissibility of laser readings in speeding cases. Our goal was to find a defendant who had a relatively clean record and would not be willing to let the case drop, even if it meant a dismissal. (After all, we are looking for a precedent to benefit all motorists, not just a "not guilty" verdict for one person.)
We found that defendant when NMA President Jim Baxter's own wife, Nancy, received an unjustified laser ticket under the perfect conditions necessary for our challenge. In December 2005, the case went to trial.
The NMA Foundation's laser expert Henry Roberts was on hand, testifying for the defense. After hearing testimony from both sides, the judge ordered written closing arguments.
The attorney representing Nancy in April 2006 submitted his brief. The prosecution still has time to file a response before the judge makes his decision.
Even if Nancy is found guilty, the foundation is considering an appeal. Ultimately, this case could establish basic standards of use that police using laser will have to follow in Wisconsin and perhaps beyond.
Our rights are too important to leave to chance. Help support cases like Nancy's now!
Go Back To NMA Foundation Home Page
