Would it be worth it to contest a traffic ticket I received?

Question

I was behind a double trailer truck. We were stopped at a traffic light. The right lane had been coned off and the maintenance people were still putting out cones When the light turned green, the trucker turned and I turned too along with 3-4 other cars. There was a policeman in the road pulling everyone over (an obvious trap as they had everything set up, i.e., 3-4 officers, tow trucks, etc.). There apparently was a no- right-turn sign on the corner but I didn't see it because of the truck. Since this was in a construction zone, it will be double the fine. I'm almost 60 and have never had a ticket. Just wanted to hear what others experiences have been in court. Thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, Fault does not matter, Tell them it will not happen again, be humble, they should look at you driving record, age etc. and void or reduce the fine.  Do not argue, you will lose.

Answer 2

You might as well fight it. Often times, the police officer doesn't show up to trial, and the ticket is dismissed.

Answer 3

Here's a trick.

Call the police station and ask for the officer that ticketed you, if he answers hang up.   If they say he's out, try asking what days the officer works.

Anyway, if your court date happens to be on a day that the officer is off 99% he wont show up, or if you can somehow re-schedule the court date so it lands on a day the officer is off then that will work.

Answer 4

Yes contest it. In the vent they say no, you would of still had to pay the ticket. But if they say yes it is ok then you have saved some money. Just make sure when you go in you play to the judge if you will. Make yourself seem really humble and almost frightened and you will more than likely be fine :) I have done this before and it worked.

Answer 5

It couldn't hurt to try. What do you have to lose?

Answer 6

did they pull over the truck drive too?

Answer 7

Go and fight the ticket.  More than half the time they will cancel the fine.