I’m 18, and I got my first speeding ticket today.
On the way home at about 11:30 PM, I was driving down the highway. It was by no means heavy traffic, but there were a fair amount of people in the middle and right line.
So, I pulled into the left lane to pass some people. As I pulled into the left lane, another car pulled in behind me. This ended up being a cop, but I did not know it at the time.
I hate it when people drive close behind me, especially at night, because the lights are bothersome, and I’m paranoid that they’re going to smash into me, or get mad that I’m going too slow for them.
So, seeing this car pretty close behind me, I sped up, planning to pull over to the middle lane once I could. The car behind me stayed right on me, making me nervous.
Of course, a few seconds later, I saw flashing lights.
When the officer came over, he asked for license and registration. Having never been pulled over before, I wasn’t sure where the registration was. As I searched, the officer said in a rather crass tone “put some effort into it.” Finally, he said forget it, and left to go to his car. About 10 seconds later, I found the registration.
When he came back, I showed it to him, and he said it was too late, and I got a $30 extra fee for not having registration. On top of the $250 ticket…said I was going 75. The ticket says it was checked by radar, so I guess I was going that fast.
Now, is there any chance I could get this ticket at least reduced…I’ve never had a ticket before, and really really don’t want to get my insurance increased…
Anyone with experience have any advice?