$250 Failure to Yield Stop Sign Bicycle Ticket

[jimboz]

My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: California

I got this ticket biking to school while coasting through a stop sign. I don't want to plead not guilty and would prefer to simply request a reduction in fine. Is it better to submit this in a letter or to go to court and speak with the judge. I am obviously not eligible for traffic school since this wasn't in a car.

Does anyone know how to properly draft a request for a reduction of fine on a traffic ticket. I was told by the county clerk that I could create such a request in this case. I cannot believe a bicycle ticket is $250...

Thanks

[chuckycheese]

Yeah, California's desperate for money and the fines are exorbitant...and they all just went up after the 1st of the year.

I'm not sure how it works in your jurisdiction but it's been my experience that a reduction in fine is a thing of the past in California. Some traffic court judges even mention that at the beginning of the court session. Maybe, someone else will comment on that who knows more (Carl, perhaps?).

As far as traffic school, I'm pretty sure you will be eligible for that, if you decide that's what you'd like to do.

[kist]

OMG you must go to court or I'll kill your puppy. That's outrageous! I'm sure the judge will reduce or dismiss the fine and I can't see the cop wasting an evening in court for that.