What is the Lamest Traffic Ticket You Ever Received?

Traffic tickets can be inconvenient and sometimes a bit embarrassing, especially when you get one for a seemingly unrelated action or when it's completely unfounded. In this article, we'll explore a variety of unconventional traffic tickets and how to handle them effectively. Join us as we reminisce and dissect some of the most amusing and outlandish traffic tickets from the past.

From Sex at Concerts to No Parking Tickets

One of the most memorable traffic tickets was given to a college friend, Daniel, who was caught by surprise when a "No Parking" zone was suddenly painted outside a friend's apartment. He had been parking there for months without any issues. But one day, after Daniel parked his truck by the curb and left to attend a class, he returned to find a ticket on his car. The problem was not the violation itself but the sudden painted curb and the paint on his tire. After some investigation, the ticket was dropped, allowing Daniel to continue his day.

A Parking Ticket in My Mailbox: An Innocent Receiver

Confused and frustrated, I once received a parking ticket in my mailbox, even though I never own a vehicle. The ticket indicated that the car in question did not belong to any household member and was parked at an address a mile away from my house. Attempting to resolve the issue through the local 311 hotline was not helpful as the operator responded with vague advice. I took a more direct approach by writing to the ticket authority and provided my non-driver ID and a copy of my non-vehicle-related identification. Despite my efforts, I heard nothing back from the issuer, and to this day, nothing is listed against me, suggesting that the mysterious sender dealt with the situation or accepted my not guilty plea.

Safe and Speedy: Handling an Unusual Race Offense

One of the more harmless tickets, the "Unsafe Start" (S 1162) ticket, is usually given to race enthusiasts for practicing burnouts in front of an officer. However, my story is a bit different. During my time in California, I was cited for chirping my tires in front of an officer in New York, leading to a hefty fine. My '00 Toyota RAV4 had terrible tires that caused me to spin out twice and occasionally chirp on start under certain conditions. When I went to court, I brought proof of these unfortunate tire reviews. Instead of dismissing the ticket, the officer reduced it to a less severe 70-dollar parking ticket.

How to Handle Unfounded Traffic Tickets

Traffic tickets can be frustrating, but handling them strategically can often resolve the issue. Here are some steps to consider:

Contact the Issuing Authority: Reach out to the city hall or the relevant department to understand the exact nature of the ticket and your options for appeal. Provide Proof: Gather documentation and evidence of any unlikeliness or misunderstanding that may have led to the ticket. Write a Formal Letter: Submit a detailed letter to the issuing agency or the court, outlining the situation and any proof you can provide (like receipts, photos, or reviews). Plea of Not Guilty: If the ticket is indeed incorrect, be sure to plead not guilty and request an appeal or dismissal. Consult a Lawyer: If the situation becomes complicated, consulting a legal professional can provide additional support and guidance.

Traffic tickets, though common, can often be resolved with patience and determination. Remember, the key is to stay informed and proactive in handling these situations.