A Truck Driver's War Against Unposted Speed Enforcement in a Small Town

It all started during the oil boom in 2012 in Tioga, North Dakota, when officers were pulling over trucks and issuing citations for not following the designated truck route into town. What began as a simple speeding ticket quickly snowballed into a full-blown battle over unposted signs and local ordinances.

Unposted 'No Truck Zone'

The incident that sparked the controversy occurred when I, a truck driver, was pulled over by an officer who, in a rather sleazy manner, offered to reduce my fine if I could convince the judge that I was from out of town. Curiously, the officer claimed that this would be a standard practice for many truck drivers, further fueled my suspicion that there were hidden policies not being openly communicated.

Investigating the Unwritten Rules

Upon returning to my car, I decided to document the situation. I snapped photos of all the streets leading into town from the highway, ensuring that every detail was captured. Back at court, with my evidence ready, I stood my ground and challenged the citation. Approximately thirty other truck drivers were also present, most of whom pleaded "no contest" and paid the fine of $280.

Legal Battles and Public Outcry

Court was held in a conference room at City Hall, with the judge, city attorney, court reporter, chief of police, and three secretaries in attendance. I was the last to speak, and when asked why I was not guilty, I explained that there were no signs marking the designated truck route, and that I, as a truck driver from out of town, was unaware of any local ordinances that prohibited me from driving or parking where I was.

I handed over the photographs to the judge, who then whispered a few questions to the city attorney. After a brief discussion, the judge announced that the court agreed with me and found me not guilty. However, the relief was short-lived. The chief of police, towering over me, blocked the doorway, expecting a confrontation. Sensing the tension, the judge intervened and instructed the chief to let me go, allowing me to leave the courtroom unscathed.

Conclusion and Reflection

This experience was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by truck drivers in unfamiliar territory, especially when local laws are not transparently communicated. It also highlights the increasing need for clear signage and consistent law enforcement practices to ensure fair treatment for all.

The incident in Tioga sparked a wider debate about speed traps and unspecified "no truck zones" in small towns, further emphasizing the importance of open and fair legal practices.