Got a Trafic Ticket I Want to Fight

Updated on June 23, 2009
J.C. asks from Northbrook, IL
7 answers

Does anyone know where I should go to get a copy of my driving record? I got a ticket at one of those camera driving traps that basically generates revenue for the town before it encourages any sort of safer driving. I have not had a ticket in 25 years, and am hoping to get this reduced to a "warning". The fine is $100 dollars! The new highway robbery!! btw, I turned right on red without comming to a full, and complete stop:(

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So What Happened?

First, I would like to send a big thank-you to the people who actually answered my question about where to get a copy of my driving record. I also really appreciate those of you who have had a similar experience and gave me some tips and insight about how to handle it. I felt more comfortable going into my hearing because I knew a bit about what to expect. I did not get a positive determination, but I feel good about trying, and 3 of the 20 something people who were there in a similar or same boat as myself, did actually get the ticket overturned because of individual circumstances.
one woman was going around a stalled car, and did not make another complete stop after that, and one gentleman was in a line of cars turning right on red and he did not make a second complete stop after the car in front of him made the turn. So if it happens to you, I think it is worth going to the hearing, if you feel like you have individual circumstances like that. Also, there are No court costs for this (at least not in Wheeling) unless you take it to a higher court than the "mediator" I spoke to.
secondly, and on a sour note, I was upset by the people who sent me really negative, mean responses, instead of answering my question. I don't know if I would ask another question on this site because of them. My mom always taught me to say something nice (or constructive) or say nothing at all. I wish everyone would follow that rule on mamasource.
But,I am so thankful for those of you who were helpful to me, so cheers to you!

More Answers

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C.W.

answers from Chicago on

This happened to me as well. In Northfield. The problem is that if we all start picking and choosing what laws to obey, it will be a nightmare. One stops at a red light. If there is no oncoming traffic, then you proceeds. Pretty simple.

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J.R.

answers from Chicago on

Hello,

you're absolutely right about the camera driving traps. my husband got a ticket for the very same thing in Elk Grove Village. unfortunately, you're probably going to get stuck paying the $100 too. They stated that you have to be at a complete stop for at least 3 seconds before moving. a rolling stop constitutes a ticket.
you can get a copy of your driving record from the Secty.of State's office. good luck, but be prepared to pay!

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C.W.

answers from Chicago on

It's not worth it. You can go to the website listed and view your infraction on video, unfortunately.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.S.

answers from Chicago on

My husband received one of these recently at Addison/Elston. It stated that he turned right on a red, but after reviewing the video on-line it looked to me like the light was still green. So I told him to go and contest it. He did and they concluded that the light was probably red, but they had to dismiss the ticket because they have to be 100% sure or they cannot enforce the fine. So, if you haven't already, view your video on-line and determine if you have a case and if you think you do, then go and contest it. My husband went right at 8:00 AM and was out by 8:15. I know it's such a pain and heartbreaking when you check your mail and there's a ticket in your mailbox! Good luck!!!

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Y.D.

answers from Chicago on

I got one of those recently as well, got an earfull from the hubby too, $100 is a lot for us too. I can tell you that you have absolutely no chance of winning(only will end up with court costs). The video evidence is absolute and you will be wasting your time, it's all there in color and time and date stamped showing your car and plate number. This will not go on your record though, just pay promptly. Basically it was an expensive mistake that you have to remember not to repeat ever again. Speaking from experience here. I can feel your pain, but the courts really do not care about your employment or income situation(they never did, never do, and never will care), they just want the money. It's very sad, but very true.

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T.L.

answers from Chicago on

if you go to court and are found guilty (which as you just admitted here you are since you didnt stop which is the requirement) you will have to pay court cost which start at around 200...On your question though you can get a copy of your driving record or anyone elses by going to the DMV

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

S.

answers from Chicago on

This happened to my husband also. They said he went through a red light. He wrote a letter contesting it and telling them that the light was yellow when he entered the turn but they came back with " denied, no it wasn't" and he had to pay. If you show up in court instead of contesting it in writing, there is a chance it will get dismissed. Good luck.

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