How do I reduce a traffic violation? Plead guilty?

Question

I have a particular situation. In most traffic violations where I felt I did nothing wrong, I would go to court and challenge it. In this instance, I crossed a flashing red light and in my mind, I thought it was a flashing yellow light. By not stopping, I was caught by a cop crossing the 4-way from the other side. I apologized to the police officer and admitted I had not noticed the flashing red lights.

What would be the best strategy to approach this issue? Should I plead not guilty and try to challenge the cop's story? Or is there another plea (mercy of the court, No Lo Contestere, guilty, etc.) that might reduce my fee for being honest and upstanding at court?

The fee is $125.00 and the violation occurred in Connecticut.

Answer 1

You screwed up and just admitted the same to all of us. Now do the right thing with the ticket you got and pay it. Don't be like some of these immature people who want to whine and cry their way out of their responsibility. Step up to the plate and take what's coming to you. You'll feel better about yourself in the end. And we'll have more respect for you, too.

Answer 2

If you have a good driving record, you can ask the assistant prosecutor fora reduction prior to going into the court room.  Explain what happened and agree to plea guilty to either a lesser charge or a reduced fine.  Don' try to challenge his story, it is your word against his and without hard evidence, he will win and after that, they won't reduce the charge or show mercy.

Answer 3

A flashing light draws more attention than a steady light.  Stating you thought it was yellow instead of red will destroy any credibility.  In my state, you can be required to retake the drivers test if your actions  are dangerous.  Depending on your driving record, you may be able to take driving school to lower the charge, or have it dismissed.  Challenging the Officers testimony will only waste the courts time.

Answer 4

i think your safest bet would be to plead guilty. i wouldnt challenge the cops story because its kind of like David vs. Goliath, you wont win, you're challenging authority. just say you made a mistake and plead guilty. take the ticket and be happy its nothing else, good luck with that.