License Suspended for "Donuts" In High School Parking Lot
My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: Pennsylvania
Hello,
I am 24 years old, a college student, and have a clear driving record prior to this incident. I received a reckless driving citation in Pennsylvania for doing donuts in the snow in the parking lot of my former high school. I went there to show my younger brother (who has a permit) how a rear wheel drive vehicle reacts and slides in the snow. I chose to go to an empty parking lot instead of showing him on a main road.
I was the only vehicle in the lot prior to the officer coming around the rear of the building and seeing my 2 wheel drive vehicle slide sideways. He stated that I was on private property (yet its a public high school) and issued the citation because he said I was teaching my brother to drive reckless and the rear of my vehicle lost traction. I asked him why he was giving me a 6 month suspension, his response was he didn't want to give me the wrong information and to check the dmv website. (I told him that I KNOW reckless carries a 6 month suspension).
To me, I felt like he didn't know that reckless driving carried 6 month suspension. I do not believe I had wanton disregard for persons or property due to the fact that I wouldn't take my brothers life in my hands unless I trust my own driving ability. If I get permission (after the fact) from the security officials on the high school for using their parking lot, will the issued citation hold up in court? What are my options other than dressing well and being respectful and hoping for the best? Any input would be appreciated, thank you.
Re: Empty Parking Lot+donuts in Snow=suspension
Permission after the fact is moot. I can understand the wisdom of the lesson and believe the court would also. It is in your best interest to hire a lawyer because if this were to get nasty in the negotiations, trespassing could come into the equation.
Re: Empty Parking Lot+donuts in Snow=suspension
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Permission after the fact is moot. I can understand the wisdom of the lesson and believe the court would also. It is in your best interest to hire a lawyer because if this were to get nasty in the negotiations, trespassing could come into the equation.
Alright, thank you for your input. I am calling around and discussing with a few different lawyers, most said they can get it reduced. I about 99% sure there are no signs stating that the school is private property after dark, which is why I had no idea I was on their private property as it is a public school
Re: Empty Parking Lot+donuts in Snow=suspension
You have no inherent right to enter public property simply because it is public property. Ever try entering a library at midnight? There are rules to being able to enter public property. It is not simply open to the public to enter as they wish.
Re: Empty Parking Lot+donuts in Snow=suspension
I understand your lesson and good intentions. Unfortunately, it is a different country now than it was when I grew up. I usually obtain permission from the church to teach my children, in their lot.
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Alright, thank you for your input. I am calling around and discussing with a few different lawyers, most said they can get it reduced. I about 99% sure there are no signs stating that the school is private property after dark, which is why I had no idea I was on their private property as it is a public school