Hello! (Officer Carl? A friend recommended that I write to you for advice but I'd love to get advice from any other expert on this forum, too!)
I was recently cited for 22356(b)VC-Speed on I-5 in California for going "80+" mph in a 70mph zone. The officer said:
"Do you know why we turned around and pulled your over? We were under the overpass and radared you at a speed of 93mph in a 70 max zone. Then when we pulled up behind you, you were going 77."
First off, I did not admit to speeding but this is what happened: because I am a woman driving alone at 10pm in the pitch black on the I-5 with a car tailing me for the past 20 minutes, out of frustration I decided to speed up to get out of his way (no one else was driving near me except for that one car) but this ended up being a BIG mistake. That one minute is costing me hundreds! This is my first ticket ever (I’m over 30) and I was really hoping for a warning because I am a very VERY safe driver. Again, it was pitch black and I did not see any head lights or parking lights from the police vehicle which, from my understanding of the law, should have been in plain view.
I’ve been reading articles online about getting a Trial by Written Declaration but I was wondering if it would apply to my ticket. I was cited for going "approximately: 80+" but 93 was circled under the checked radar box and there are 2 officers listed on my ticket. Do I have even have a 50% chance of getting off? If I was found guilty and then filed for Trial de Novo and also dont win.... can I still have the option to go to traffic school? The officer was very polite (as was I) and I know he already gave me a speed break but I just can’t afford this ticket (and stupid mistake).
Thanks in advance for you advice!

