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Stop Sign Ticket
My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: California
Hello I received a stop sign violation about a month after another traffic infraction so i do not qualify for traffic school. The area was dark and has trees that are taller than the stop signs that cover it at night. I did not see the stop sign until I was right at it causing me to stop abruptly and late. This is probably my fault but I want to make sure. I am not aware of my options. I have a court date soon but it is the same time as I am leaving the country for a month or so. What should i do?
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Re: Stop Sign Ticket
I'm not sure how trees that are taller than the Stop sign can cover it at night considering the fact that Stop signs are painted with reflective material to make them more visible in darker areas, however, if you still think that your view was obstructed then taking a picture with you to show the judge might work in your favor.
Aside from that and in spite of your realizing that your attention might have also contributed to your late and abrupt stop, I'm not sure what other defense might be helpful to you in a trial.
As for your court date, you left out any info as to whether the court appearance is your first for this citation (your arraignment) or if you have already entered a plea and have a trial date coming up.
Assuming it is your arraignment and if you have not requested any extensions from the court for this citation, then you are entitled to a 60 day automatic extension that you can request by phone, online or by visiting the court at the address shown on your citation. If you have received that first extension then I suggest that you visit the court and you might be granted another by the clerk (if you state the reason for your needing one) or you might have to see the judge.
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Re: Stop Sign Ticket
Ok thanks a lot for your response basically its like the tree's leaves and branches hang down until the sign and these are community trees so they are all in unison. I would say my view was slightly obstructed at a certain points it is quite hard to see the sign especially if you are not familiar with the particular area. My arraignment date is on the 26th of june and I get back the 8th. The court site said I have a 45 day extension. What I'm wondering is if I should fight this or pay the fine. What are my chances of winning this case?