My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: Maryland, USA
I am a 17 year old male, and I just received my first traffic ticket. Before writing me off as some hot head kid, please just hear me out.
I was driving on the highway with 4 other friends ( in separate vehicles). And we were all speeding and passing each other at high speeds (80mph in a 55 limit). Whilst driving with one friend in front of me, a cop passed me with his lights on, and I slowed down behind him. He was obviously pulling my friend, C., over. C pulls over, and the cop remains in the roadway pointing at me. This is when I realize that we are both being pulled over. he runs all of our info and I received a citation for "Aggressive Driving", $370. Then telling us to be on our way.
I obviously broke the law and deserved the ticket. I am posting this here to ask for advice. What would be the best coarse of action now? I want to minimize all damages to myself and my family in a financial way. This includes our insurance, and the fine I have to pay. I am thinking about "option 2" on the citation which is admit I broke the law and request an audience with a judge, and beg for his/her forgiveness.
If I am going to take option 2, what would be the best thing to say to the judge?
And my final question is, what happens if I refuse to pay the fine? It says my license will be suspended, but for how long? What happens when I turn 18?
Thank you for reading all of my questions, all of your answers will be greatly appreciated.
Sam

