Handicap Parking Violation in New Jersey

[Jaffar]

My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: New Jersey.

Over the weekend, I received a citation for pulling into a handicap parking spot at a NJ gas station near Six Flags. Even though I was just dropping a friend off who needed to buy pills for her cramps, and was about to reverse out immediately, a cop pulled up behind me and issued me a ticket (Statute 39:4-138O). It’s a $250 penalty and requires a court appearance.

Here’s the problem. I am not from the United States. I am on holiday and was driving a rental car with the driver’s license issued by my home country. I am leaving in a few days to return home and cannot make the court appearance before I leave.

What can I do? NJ is strict about this violation but I couldn’t have known any better. Is there any chance that the court will waive this ticket if I write a letter explaining my unfamiliarity with NJ traffic regulations and the fact that I am leaving the country? I do not plan to return to the US.

Thank you!

[That Guy]

Is there any chance that the court will waive this ticket if I write a letter explaining my unfamiliarity with NJ traffic regulations and the fact that I am leaving the country?

In the United States, it is the driver's responsibility to familiarize him/herself with the rules of the road prior to driving.

You've heard of the saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do...".

I do not plan to return to the US.

I highly doubt that NJ will notify the Interpol of your violation...

However, and depending upon whether NJ considers this as a "parking violation". If they do, this citation might be referred to the registered owner of the vehicle which is the rental agency where you rented the vehicle.

They, in turn and depending on the terms of your rental contract, might charge the fine onto the credit card number that they have on file for you.

So while you might be able to forgo the court appearance, you might not escape from having to pay the fine. Which by the way, if left unpaid past the due date, might also get a pile of late payment charges added onto it.