I have to go to traffic court on wed. Should i plead not guilty or ask for a continuance until i can speak to an attorney

Pleading not guilty and waiving your right to a speedy trial should give you the time to seek an attorney.  Additionally I would recommend informing the Court that you request additional time to seek counsel.  I know several of the traffic courts in NE Ohio schedule pre-trials months after a not guilty plea so you should have plenty of time to find an attorney.  Additionally, if you find an attorney between now and Wednesday, most of the time they will be able to file a Notice of Appearance and Entry of Not Guilty Plea with the Clerk of Court.  This would alleviate you having to take time off work to make this appearance.