Received a traffic violation.. Question about my court date?

Hi all,

Hoping to get some advice or information as my brain is mush from researching online. I received a traffic violation tonight for driving without lights at night. I recently bought a new car and didn't realize I was driving without my lights on (I'm not used to the car yet) but received a citation from the cop anyway. 🙁 I have a court date at the end of November but I cannot make the date. I want to possibly take care of this earlier and wondered if my chances of getting the tickets dismissed are possible with my reasonings? I know I can take defensive driving school online which I may end up doing but my main question is if I have a chance to get this dismissed and if I can show up earlier than my court date? Also, is it possible to get it dismissed without going into court (maybe calling over the phone)? With covid, I have been trying to avoid going to crowded public places as much as possible as well. Thank you for any input/advice.

PS: I already know about hiring a lawyer but I rather not use that option.