Trial results for my ticket of 124 mph

[Warpkor]

Here are the results of my traffic trial from 12/4 in which I was ticketed for 124mph north bound on Highway 70 heading from Sacramento to Yuba City.

In a nutshell:

My license was not suspended.

Fine: $340.

I am I a very lucky S.O.B? Indeed…

Refer to threads: http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=217026&highlight=ticketed+for+124

And:

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=217026&highlight=ticketed+for+124 for the background.

Total out of pocket expenses: $1750 for my attorney and $340 for the fine (a one point infraction for violation 22349(a) for a total of $2090. A discretionary expense of about $450 for an Escort Radar detector can be added to the total, too.

As I spun these events in my head numerous times trying to make sense of the whole experience, here’s what I came up with.

I don’t think that my attorney through his miraculous negotiations really did much for me for the money. But it was his experience that provided the possibility for the events to unfold as they did. As referenced from the previous thread, my attorney originally pleaded “no contest” at the arraignment hearing to see how the judge pro-tem would respond. It was a bad scene, as the judge immediately declared a large fine and a 30 day license suspension for my “egregious speed.” My attorney attempted to negotiate for my license with the judge to no avail and then reversed the plea from “no contest” to “not guilty”. Basically, I was to keep my fingers crossed that the CHP officer failed to show for the trial.

At the trial, because I was being represented by an attorney, the CHP officer was being represented by an assistant district attorney. Normal procedure, I was told, for those that bring hired representation. The ADA spoke with my attorney and essentially my attorney indicated that we were present to plead guilty and hope for the best. It was then that I suggested to my attorney that negotiating for my license with the ADA would be appropriate. They left the courtroom and discussed my situation. I had to stay in court in case my name was called. My attorney returned and said that he told the truth to the ADA about his intentions to plead guilty and hope that my license could be preserved. I saw the ADA speak to CHP officer that appeared for the trial *damn, he came!*.

The four of us appeared before the judge when it was my turn. The judge reviewed my file and noted that I had taken the driver training course back in September of 2006 for a different speeding violation and thus could not take another of such kind. The judge then indicated that if I could find a 12 hour driver training course (apparently an exception to the 18 month rule) he would give me 30 days to take the course and report back to the court to expunge the record of the speeding ticket. I was stunned and indicated that indeed I would follow up with the driver training course. I was standing there in disbelief when the CHP officer and the ADA, thinking that everything had been resolved, turned and existed the court room.

Then it kind of turned to shit. The courtroom clerk turned to the judge and said, “Sir, did you note the speed of the violation?” The judge had not noted the speed until the clerk prompted him to. The judge, then noting the speed exceeding 100 mph, indicated that there were no exceptions to taking the driver training course. The judge also noted that the violation code of 22349(a) “exceeding the posted speed limit” was incorrect. He then indicated that the fine of $340 was a miscalculation. Remember: the CHP officer and the ADA had already exited the courtroom.

I said that I was prepared to pay the fine today. The judge then said, “Slow it down.” I said, “yes sir” and paused thinking that I was going to hear that my license would be suspended. But that was it. My attorney and I then left the courtroom. As we were leaving, my attorney said, “Do you realize what just happened?” “Yup,” I whispered, “I still have my license.”

$340 is no small change, but I was thrilled to pay such a small amount and walk out of the court house with my license. I have a one point infraction on my record as a result of this experience.

It’s time for me to buy a lottery ticket, don’t you think?

[929rider]

geez, 124mph!! where the heck were you going? you should consider yourself very lucky.

[2strokeYardSale]

Did you kick the clerk in the nuts afterward?

[budman]

Thanks for bringing the info back.. looks like a good outcome for you and your future.

:smoking

[silverbelt]

You came away better than I thought you would :thumbup

Thanks for coming back and posting the results and I am glad it worked out for you.

You were lucky this time. Slow down so there is no next time :)

[motorman4life]

Congrats on your very good luck.

What do you think the odds are that you will find and complete the 12-hour course in 30 days? Come Monday, it will have been 6 days since you were sentenced.. that's 20% of the time gone. Have you even found a class yet? Are you signed up? Let us know how much that Level II class costs.. that would be added to your overall total.

I would expect that after spending over $2000, you would get it done. But, I would have also hoped you would not get stopped going over 100 within 18 months of your last speeding ticket. I suspect you are not a person that responds well to "warnings." That said, what do you think the odds are that you won't get another ticket within the next 18 months?

I'm not trying to be an asshole here, but I stop and cite a lot of people with really expensive detectors and the fact that you have made a point of buying one of the most advanced detectors on the market tells me you have no intention of changing your habits.

Just an observation.

[Junkie]

How many people on sportbikes always obey the speed limit? Very few, that's for sure. There are plenty of times when I'm cruising along at 15 over, with traffic, hoping that I don't get a ticket, knowing it's safer than being a rolling roadblock, and knowing that it's not legal. Of course, there's a big difference between that and doing 124.

[ctroutnerrun]

Just incase MM4L has got you pegged and you haven't moved your ass on that traffic school, this guy does the twelve hour class, two saturdays, eight hours first, four the next. $55. http://yellowpages.aol.com/business/a-better-way-traffic-school/alamo/ca/0,121111093/. Very nice teacher.
Also congratulations on your good fortune, but seriously, why the radar detector, do you not intend to change? I'm no expert on radar or radar detectors, but I'm pretty sure you can't beat all radar. (i.e. if the officer is pointing the radar gun at you, leo's please correct me if I am wrong) You just got extremely lucky, why take such a risk speeding again?
The judge also noted that the violation code of 22349(a) “exceeding the posted speed limit” was incorrect. He then indicated that the fine of $340 was a miscalculation
Can you imagine how fucking pissed off that judge would be to see you again? Not trying to rain on your parade, but it's something to think about. Congrats again.

[NorCalBusa]

Nice outcome for you! Yeah, Judges ain't like one's Mom- they aren't keen on do-overs, action contrary to their orders (no such thing as "misunderstanding"- best pay real good attention) and missed deadlines...

[plumber]

Well I'd like to congratulate you on (short of the traffic school) dodging a major bullet. I suggest you complete the judges directions quickly and completely. I also would like to add that the lawyer did more for you than you think.

Complete the 12 hour traffic school and buy a lottery ticket.

[dgbernstein]

You are very lucky, indeed.

You should add any increases your insurance company is going to charge you for that point to the total cost. That's one cost you'll be paying for a while (the gift that keeps on giving).

[RRR70]

How many people on sportbikes always obey the speed limit? Very few, that's for sure. There are plenty of times when I'm cruising along at 15 over, with traffic, hoping that I don't get a ticket, knowing it's safer than being a rolling roadblock, and knowing that it's not legal. Of course, there's a big difference between that and doing 124.

There is a little bit if difference between going 15MPH over speed limit and going 124PMH, don't you think?

He is lucky he get off easy.

[afm199]

Well, next one coming up :laughing

[Warpkor]

Congrats on your very good luck.

What do you think the odds are that you will find and complete the 12-hour course in 30 days? Come Monday, it will have been 6 days since you were sentenced.. that's 20% of the time gone. Have you even found a class yet? Are you signed up? Let us know how much that Level II class costs.. that would be added to your overall total.

I would expect that after spending over $2000, you would get it done. But, I would have also hoped you would not get stopped going over 100 within 18 months of your last speeding ticket. I suspect you are not a person that responds well to "warnings." That said, what do you think the odds are that you won't get another ticket within the next 18 months?

I'm not trying to be an asshole here, but I stop and cite a lot of people with really expensive detectors and the fact that you have made a point of buying one of the most advanced detectors on the market tells me you have no intention of changing your habits.

Just an observation.

I understand your opinion and I think based on your experience that it holds true for most. But, I actually bought the radar detector for two reasons. One, I did not want to be cited for another relatively slow speeding ticket like the one I got in September of 2006 in Roseville, CA. It was the Roseville police popping everybody for speeding with a radar, generating enormous revenue. I was cited for less than 10 over in that case. Second, since I have radically altered my riding/driving patterns to keep it near the posted speed limits, the radar detector serves as a reminder to slow down.

I have taken this very unpleasant experience to heart and intend to keep it slower. As for the odds, I will do everything in my power to keep my speeds reasonable, slow it down and avoid further speeding tickets.

[Junkie]

There is a little bit if difference between going 15MPH over speed limit and going 124PMH, don't you think?

He is lucky he get off easy.yeah, but he says his former ticket was for less than 10 over. I don't know ANYONE who doesn't drive at that speed on the freeway.

[afm199]

Come on dude. Two tickets in less than 18 months and buying a radar detector?

ROTFLMAO

[motorman4life]

yeah, but he says his former ticket was for less than 10 over. I don't know ANYONE who doesn't drive at that speed on the freeway.
My point was that the first ticket.. even if he was CITED for a mere 10 over, did not change his habits and he then got a ticket for 120+ within a few months. I'm thinking if he had gotten a WARNING for 10 or 20 over back in September that it would have little or no effect on his speed. Now after getting a HUGE break, rather than point out that he has changed his ways, he points out that he has obtained an expensive detector (like that is going to solve the problem).

He hasn't said he has sought out the class he needs and has not even considered the time and money that class will cost into his overall penalty.

As I said, I routinely pull over people with 1 to 5 detectors on-board, some worth more than their vehicle. A detector will not keep him from speeding.

[JPM]

...... A detector will not keep him from speeding.


But maybe the bus will have a cigarette lighter socket in it; then he can share.:laughing

[plumber]

But maybe the bus will have a cigarette lighter socket in it; then he can share.:laughing

Screw the radar detector. I want his lawyer....:teeth

[motorman4life]

I think it was pretty clear the court screwed up and overlooked the speed. You could likely pay any monkey in a suit to get the court to cut you a slight break. I've seen many bungling lawyers get their clients sweet deals in spite of their ineptitude.. the court is inclined to cut them a break on your behalf, out of professional courtesy. Remember, the commissioners and judges are or were attorneys themselves. As to whether it was worth 2G's.. well, that is in the eye of the beholder.

If he gets popped again, it will all be for nothing.

[Warpkor]

I understand the scepticism. Nevetheless, I intend to obey the posted speed limits. My job depends on it. I was unclear in my posting. Because I was cited for over 100 mph, I'm not eligible for the driver class.

[mabbott]

I understand the scepticism. Nevetheless, I intend to obey the posted speed limits. My job depends on it. I was unclear in my posting. Because I was cited for over 100 mph, I'm not eligible for the driver class.

I was wondering when you would remind them that you weren't eliigible. I hope you do change your habits. I know I am a habitual speeder, tickets make me slow down for a little bit, but 124 is way beyond speeding. I am glad you got lucky and I hope the radar detector keeps your throttle in check. If not, you could always buy a 250! That will remind you to slow down!

[mlm]

My point was that the first ticket.. even if he was CITED for a mere 10 over, did not change his habits and he then got a ticket for 120+ within a few months. I'm thinking if he had gotten a WARNING for 10 or 20 over back in September that it would have little or no effect on his speed. Now after getting a HUGE break, rather than point out that he has changed his ways, he points out that he has obtained an expensive detector (like that is going to solve the problem).

He hasn't said he has sought out the class he needs and has not even considered the time and money that class will cost into his overall penalty.

As I said, I routinely pull over people with 1 to 5 detectors on-board, some worth more than their vehicle. A detector will not keep him from speeding.

I'd equate a single ticket for less than 10mph over as bad luck more than a profound learning experience.

I briefly used a radar detector back in the day and was never impressed, although it did help make me a more attentive driver. I always suspected a cop would be more likely ticket me if he saw it, and your response confirms the prejudice.

[motorman4life]

I understand the scepticism. Nevetheless, I intend to obey the posted speed limits. My job depends on it. I was unclear in my posting. Because I was cited for over 100 mph, I'm not eligible for the driver class.

Gee... I don't know where the misunderstanding came from. :laughing

The judge reviewed my file and noted that I had taken the driver training course back in September of 2006 for a different speeding violation and thus could not take another of such kind. The judge then indicated that if I could find a 12 hour driver training course (apparently an exception to the 18 month rule) he would give me 30 days to take the course and report back to the court to expunge the record of the speeding ticket. I was stunned and indicated that indeed I would follow up with the driver training course.

[Razel]

The judge reviewed my file and noted that I had taken the driver training course back in September of 2006 for a different speeding violation and thus could not take another of such kind. The judge then indicated that if I could find a 12 hour driver training course


Gee... I don't know where the misunderstanding came from. :laughing

Then it kind of turned to shit. The courtroom clerk turned to the judge and said, “Sir, did you note the speed of the violation?” The judge had not noted the speed until the clerk prompted him to. The judge, then noting the speed exceeding 100 mph, indicated that there were no exceptions to taking the driver training course. The judge also noted that the violation code of 22349(a) “exceeding the posted speed limit” was incorrect. He then indicated that the fine of $340 was a miscalculation. Maybe that part (in bold) got overlooked?:dunno

[SpeedyCorky]

considering i was popped for "over 100mph estimated 105mph" on highway 5 and got $600 fine , 30 day suspension, 2 points (7 years on the record). Seeing that you were more like 120+mph... the fine you got was small and you are lucky you can still legally drive/ride. shame now a days how you have to get a $2000 lawyer to get a 'fair' trial/sentence....

get the detector, but know that it will likely distract you more than it will help you. your best to 'speed smart', for that is the key to max speed and minimizing tickets. sounds like you didnt 100% learn you lesson, and neither did i back when i got my lovely 105mph ticket 5 years ago. practice "going fast slowly". ride fairly chill 95% of the time, and that extra 5% if you find the need to speed then do your speeding when the safety conditions and the lack of law enforcement permits.

[JimE]

Want to slow down, stop getting into trouble AND go really fast? Take it to the track. For what it sounds like it'll ultimately cost you with insurance, attorneys, fines, etc.. you probably could have gotten a decent off the rack suit, gloves, boots and a handful of track days and tires. I know from my personal experience that going to the track actually slowed me down on the street. I used to speed all over the mountains and after I started racing I slowed down. Just trying to be constructive as you may have a similar experience.

[motorman4life]

Maybe that part (in bold) got overlooked?:dunnoThat must be it. :laughing

[}Dragon{]

I think it was pretty clear the court screwed up and overlooked the speed.

So did the person who doesn't know the diff between 223499(a) and (b). :laughing (Knowing that- I would have just paid it.)

I remember when that was a "will take" section of the CVC.:nerd

[ctroutnerrun]

I'm confused. You'll obviously know more about the situation then anyone here, but this is how I read it. (Bear in mind this is coming from someone who knows little to nothing about court procedures, so If my points are utterly retarded, my bad :twofinger)
I was unclear in my posting. Because I was cited for over 100 mph, I'm not eligible for the driver class.
The judge, then noting the speed exceeding 100 mph, indicated that there were no exceptions to taking the driver training course. The judge also noted that the violation code of 22349(a) “exceeding the posted speed limit” was incorrect. He then indicated that the fine of $340 was a miscalculation. Remember: the CHP officer and the ADA had already exited the courtroom.
I was under the impresson that since the ADA and CHP officer had already left, the judges decision was already final, (like I said, no court experience, I really have no clue) and he was merely informing you that, normally in these circumstances, you SHOULD have been cited for something more severe, you SHOULDN'T be able to go to traffic school, and you SHOULD have a larger fine, but you got lucky and got written up for 22349(a) which does allow traffic school, and not 22348(b).
I admit re-reading your post that it does sound more like he was taking away the ability to go to traffic school as some last minute form of punishment, but if he wasn't/couldn't, he certainly won't be happy to find out you didn't follow up with his instructions.
Once again, you know better then anyone else here what happened/what the judge said, and if you're sure about not being able to go, I'm sorry and that sucks. (the point + insurance rates) I'm merely posting this because I would hate to hear about someone that got lucky who pissed it away because they had misunderstood the judge and didn't bother to double-check. Hopefully this is not the case. Either way just my :2cents
Edit: (Or perhaps I work for the traffic school and just really, really want your $55) :D:rofl:twofinger

[Gnarly Cranium]

It was the Roseville police popping everybody for speeding with a radar, generating enormous revenue.The LEOs around here have addressed this issue multiple times. Tickets in no way represent 'enormous revenue'.

[Warpkor]

The LEOs around here have addressed this issue multiple times. Tickets in no way represent 'enormous revenue'.

I have read the LEO comments about generating revenue and tend to agree with their observations. Chalk that comment up to my attempt to "editorialize" that the ticket was simply unnecessary, as the speeds of the vehicles in the referenced area are consistently 10 or more above the speed limit and any normally law abiding citizen would be cited during the radar trap.

[motorman4life]

If the police are there concentrating their enforcement efforts, it is because of an uptick in collisions or increased complaints (or both). Just because "everyone" is going 10 over "all the time" does not make it safe or legal.

Their presence there will likely lower the average speeds and reduce the speed-related collisions. The life they save may be yours. Of course, you would never know if they saved your life in the process. You'll just go on happily calling their efforts a "speed trap" and snubbing your nose at their efforts. Hopefully you'll consider your speed too.

[Warpkor]

If the police are there concentrating their enforcement efforts, it is because of an uptick in collisions or increased complaints (or both). Just because "everyone" is going 10 over "all the time" does not make it safe or legal.

Their presence there will likely lower the average speeds and reduce the speed-related collisions. The life they save may be yours. Of course, you would never know if they saved your life in the process. You'll just go on happily calling their efforts a "speed trap" and snubbing your nose at their efforts. Hopefully you'll consider your speed too.

I understand your commentary MM. And, as I've mentioned a few times thus far, I have modified my speed to stay within the posted limits. And you know as well as I do that I now represent a rolling road block on the highway where law enforcement is thin. Your earlier commentary suggested that I have a pattern of behavior unlikely to change because I was cited twice in 18 months. All I can say (knowing talk is cheap) is that you've pegged me incorrectly. The unfortunate and deliberate attempt to see how fast I could go (124 mph) shall not happen again. It was stupid.

With a sharp eye and a radar dectector, I seek to avoid being cited for speed violations of less than 10 over. Again, the detector provideds a reminder to keep my speeds limited as when it receives a signal it gives me my MPH though it stops short of saying "slow down buddy, don't give MM any more fodder to impune your good standing as a citizen." :)

[JesasaurusRex]

What do good radar detectors cost? 3-500 bux? If it helps you avoid 1 ticket it just paid itself off, so the real question is...why don't i have one yet :(

[JesasaurusRex]

Just because "everyone" is going 10 over "all the time" does not make it safe...


This has probably popped up a time or two before but I still believe that person going 55 in a 65 when everybody else is going 75 is a much bigger hazard than "everybody" going 10 over. Would it be safer if everybody went 65, sure, but everybody speeds, so yes, by you going under the speed limit you are increasing the risk of an accident.

[ptowntsi]

no plates and keep going, works for a bunch of my friends. i have yet to try it.

[motorman4life]

...so yes, by you going under the speed limit you are increasing the risk of an accident.
I didn't hear anyone suggest it was safe or prudent to go 10
under. Since you brought it up, I don't have a problem with people going 55 in the slow lane.

I lived in Germany for 3 years and I am a big proponent of lane discipline, as enforced on the Autobahn. I think "slow traffic keep right" should be more strictly enforced as I do agree that is a greater hazard than 1 to 10 over the limit, in most cases.

It would be nice if ALL motorcycle accidents were SINGLE VEHICLE collisions. Then we would only have ourselves to blame.

Out of nowhere and for no particular reason, let me take a moment here to pass on 3 things that have made my riding more enjoyable and probably saved my life:
If you have not read it already, I suggest you read and practice "THE PACE" [ARTICLE LINKY] (http://www.ridehsta.com/thepace.htm)
Read the article: Gored by Complacency [ARTICLE LINKY] (http://www.ridehsta.com/gored.htm)
Lastly, next time you ride, make an extra effort to raise your awareness while riding. Scan the horizon and look up ahead in the road, as far as you can see, then scan back toward the nearest intersection or threat, every 15 to 20 seconds. Do better surface appraisals, try to make more/better eye contact with other drivers and try to avoid abrupt input by anticipating things in advance and making the subtle adjustments necessary to smooth out your riding. See if that does not make you feel 10x safer and make your riding more enjoyable.

I know many of you THINK you’re riding at your full potential. I know I did. But, if you are finding yourself in "panic" or "emergency" “oh shit!” situations while riding.. it is usually not your environment or the other drivers that are the problem. It is you. Anticipate the worst, prepare accordingly and find a healthy balance between hyper-vigilance and relaxation. The life you save may be your own.

Ride safe. :thumbup

[NorCalBusa]

MM4L- whattya think about moving all the semi trucks to the #1 lane, and they can not change lanes until exiting? Make some sort of rule that they have to stay over there until within 3 exits of where they are getting off. Seems to me, to your point, the speed differentials are the problem, as well as difficulty in seeing around them- get 'em over there out of the way, most are on hauls and won't be getting off the freeway as quickly/often as cars.

[Warpkor]

I can appreciate what MM4L is trying to convey. While speed does play a factor in a number of collisions, as well as, speed differentials, he is suggesting that inattention plays a bigger role in collisions. In fact, the data shows that inattention plays the largest role in collision situations, even (as I understand it) beyond drugs and alcohol. Being hyper vigilant has its rewards and improves your game while riding. This pertains to paying close attention to your speed, as well as, to the conditions of the road.

[afm199]

Man. I remember the German Autobahn. I remember going 100 plus on the Bahn, coming up on a big rig ( in the right lane where it belonged) being tailed by a slow sedan. I remember the sedan pulling out from slow to fast lane immediately in front of me with 50 mph differential and no turn signal. I remember having to pass him on the right, then swerve left back into the fast lane to miss the big rig. I then remember 2 minutes later at 100 mph being high beamed by a Porsche, who I pulled over for and who had at LEAST a forty mph speed differential.

[Alan_Hepburn]

MM4L- whattya think about moving all the semi trucks to the #1 lane, and they can not change lanes until exiting? Make some sort of rule that they have to stay over there until within 3 exits of where they are getting off. Seems to me, to your point, the speed differentials are the problem, as well as difficulty in seeing around them- get 'em over there out of the way, most are on hauls and won't be getting off the freeway as quickly/often as cars.

that would only work if you convince the other drivers that a turn signal means "I would like to change lanes please" and not "You better close up that hole so I can't change lanes"...

[JesasaurusRex]

I didn't hear anyone suggest it was safe or prudent to go 10
under. Since you brought it up, I don't have a problem with people going 55 in the slow lane.

I lived in Germany for 3 years and I am a big proponent of lane discipline, as enforced on the Autobahn. I think "slow traffic keep right" should be more strictly enforced as I do agree that is a greater hazard than 1 to 10 over the limit, in most cases.

It would be nice if ALL motorcycle accidents were SINGLE VEHICLE collisions. Then we would only have ourselves to blame.

Out of nowhere and for no particular reason, let me take a moment here to pass on 3 things that have made my riding more enjoyable and probably saved my life:
If you have not read it already, I suggest you read and practice "THE PACE" [ARTICLE LINKY] (http://www.ridehsta.com/thepace.htm)
Read the article: Gored by Complacency [ARTICLE LINKY] (http://www.ridehsta.com/gored.htm)
Lastly, next time you ride, make an extra effort to raise your awareness while riding. Scan the horizon and look up ahead in the road, as far as you can see, then scan back toward the nearest intersection or threat, every 15 to 20 seconds. Do better surface appraisals, try to make more/better eye contact with other drivers and try to avoid abrupt input by anticipating things in advance and making the subtle adjustments necessary to smooth out your riding. See if that does not make you feel 10x safer and make your riding more enjoyable.

I know many of you THINK you’re riding at your full potential. I know I did. But, if you are finding yourself in "panic" or "emergency" “oh shit!” situations while riding.. it is usually not your environment or the other drivers that are the problem. It is you. Anticipate the worst, prepare accordingly and find a healthy balance between hyper-vigilance and relaxation. The life you save may be your own.

Ride safe. :thumbup


By speed LIMIT my understanding is that's the absolute fastest you're supposed to be going. Granted all fine n dandy if everybody obeyed but once again, real world here. My 10 under comment was actually brought up because, and maybe i'm pulling this out of thin air, i remember hearing that is the legal limit on the other side of the spectrum. Could be wrong...

[Junkie]

By speed LIMIT my understanding is that's the absolute fastest you're supposed to be going. Granted all fine n dandy if everybody obeyed but once again, real world here. My 10 under comment was actually brought up because, and maybe i'm pulling this out of thin air, i remember hearing that is the legal limit on the other side of the spectrum. Could be wrong...considering that semis aren't allowed to exceed 55, I would be very surprised at someone getting a ticket for driving along at 50 in the slow lane.

[motorman4life]

My 10 under comment was actually brought up because, and maybe i'm pulling this out of thin air, i remember hearing that is the legal limit on the other side of the spectrum. Could be wrong...
Are you talking about MINIMUM speed? As in, the minmum legal speed on the freeway? In some states, they have min

imum and maximum speeds posted on the freeways. Some have maximum and mimimum speeds posted for each individual lane (usually painted in the lane). I think it is a good idea in areas that don't see congestion. In metropolitan areas, it is unrealistic to enforce minimum speeds. What do you do when traffic is stopped; Ram 'em? Drive on the shoulder?

If you are in the far right lane, you can go 10 or 20 under.. even slower, depending upon conditions. Failure to keep right, failure to use turnouts... those will (should) get you cited. If you have 4 or 5 lanes and someone is "crawling" in the far right lane.. go the fuck around them. Again, if you are scanning up ahead, it should never be a surprise. You should have plenty of time to anticipate and set your self up to avoid any conflict or panic/evasive maneuvers.

If slow drivers in the rightmost lanes are really fucking up your trip, you are probably riding with your head in the clouds.

[DancingQueen]

How many people on sportbikes always obey the speed limit? Very few, that's for sure. There are plenty of times when I'm cruising along at 15 over, with traffic, hoping that I don't get a ticket, knowing it's safer than being a rolling roadblock, and knowing that it's not legal. Of course, there's a big difference between that and doing 124.

Being a latecomer to this thread, and having not read through the whole thing as this point in time, don't bash me if this was already addressed...

That being said.

As I had my incident happen where I was accused of going excess speeds which I was not, and is impossible for the bike I was riding... among other things...
Now when I drive my truck, I will not go so much as even 2 mph over the limit. What I have noticed is there seems to be a 'fast' group out there and a 'slow' group out there. The slow people all seem to end up driving around eachother, with proper spacing, turn signals, lane changes all being made in a safe manner. However, with the 'fast' group you will get one or two people speeding through the slow group, passing on the left and right until they get to a small clearing ahead on the highway. At which point they enter a second group of cars which are all traveling at speeds of 5-15 over the limit.

I find it strange how the logistics of these situations work. yes, when people say they feel the need to speed to maintain safe travel among other drivers, it is because they put themselves in the 'fast' group. Whereas you have people who drive the speed limit that feel safe within their 'slow' group not understanding where those statements of having to drive fast to feel 'safe' come from.

Sometime just try it, just stay out of the fast lane, unless you are passing. You will see that there are many drivers out there that drive at the speed limit. When one is staying in the fast lane, it is impossible to notice the amount of safe drivers out there. And if one would stay in the fast lane it would appear as if every one is driving fast, as the slower drivers are often overlooked.


I find this to be true in every situation, people often accuse others of what they themselves are guilty of. There are very few honest people in this world. What I find the most appalling is (and don't think I am talking about EVERYONE, please!!) if you watch officers driving when they are not in pursuit, (again, not all of them, but a good majority) that I have seen speed 5-15 over the limit, fail to use their turn signals and roll through stop signs as well as other traffic violations. (again, I am not pinpointing all officers, I know that there are some officers who display safe driving habits, however there are also some that abuse the badge in a sense)

Unfortunately, in this world, I am finding that more and more people have the "monkey see, monkey do" syndrome. And fail to appear to have the brain power to think for themselves. Maybe an officer was rolling through a stop sign because he was in a silent pursuit? Maybe the officer was speeding because he got an urgent call but felt it unnecessary to light up? You never know. The fact is that not every one has the common sense to think about situations like that fully and try to understand why an officer would take part in those actions. Unfortunately, I have heard people say, "Well, I saw a cop roll through a stop sign, so it must be okay for me to do it" Or "I saw a cop going 10 over the limit, so it must be okay for me."

What it comes down to is this, people are stupid, and a simple request by me for the officers is, when you are not in pursuit, or have an urgent matter to be taken care of, please set a good example. People are watching and learning from your behavior. People will and are following your example. (Not all people, but honestly, there are a ton of em out there that fail to have common sense!)




Hmmm... seems to be the outcome of the day for me, lots of TLDR type of posts. Like I said, for some reason today I feel like standing on my soap box! :rofl

[Junkie]

For a while I was driving right at the speed limit, but it has seemed to me that it got me more attention than I liked so I sped up a bit, strange as it sounds. I also tended to even get passed by trucks in some cases, in which case I felt like I was increasing my risk of an accident and also causing traffic. There were 230 mile trips where I probably passed one or two people who wasn't towing a trailer, and was passed by even some semis.

80% of the 25k in the cage since I got it september 06 has been on roads with no more than 2 lanes/direction - quite a bit of this US101 between SLO and SJ. I maintain proper lane discipline almost all of the time, the only times I don't are when there isn't anybody coming up behind me for a ways and the pavement is original (mid 50s) and therefore in the right lane horrible. If there's someone coming up behind me, I think I'm just about the best person you'll find. When I was driving the speed limit, I wasn't doing this either and I never found these packs of slow drivers you speak of - at least not unless I wanted to drive a bit under the limit and run with the trucks.

[DancingQueen]

I wasn't doing this either and I never found these packs of slow drivers you speak of - at least not unless I wanted to drive a bit under the limit and run with the trucks.


You probably just weren't paying attention. I find that I am a very observant person and notice things that others fail to notice. However, I do have my days where I am a little more tired than usual or have a lot on my mind, and find that others notice things before I do. I'm not saying I'm perfect. I just have a knack for noticing ordinary everyday things that usually go by the wayside for others. Just wish I had my wits about me that one day when I didn't notice the cop behind me for 1/4 mile. Had I not had consideration for others' safety, and had I pulled over in the middle of the lane, I might not be in the situation I find myself in now. However, my constant over thinking and over analyzing situations leaves me a sitting duck in some instances. All I wanted to do was wait for a safe place to pull over, I thought my signal and slowed speed was enough to show my intentions. Obviously I was wrong.

[Rel]

As I had my incident happen where I was accused of going excess speeds which I was not, and is impossible for the bike I was riding... among other things...

Sooooooo, have you had your court date yet?

[DancingQueen]

Sooooooo, have you had your court date yet?

I had the arraignment so far. Still waiting for the trial. After the trial I will post the whole story. Until then mums the word.

[AFM#719]

The LEOs around here have addressed this issue multiple times. Tickets in no way represent 'enormous revenue'.


Really?

"Here are the facts about the real purpose of the Highway Patrol and Motorcycle Cops in every city. Their sole purpose is to generate revenue for their city, state, or county. Law enforcement officials will tell you motor cops are trying to reduce traffic accidents, which is true, but the revenue they generate can be significant. In the Los Angeles area, motor cops try to write between 15-20 citations during their shift. The city gets the revenue, or at least a portion of the revenue, that is collected by the courts. If the average ticket is $250 then each officer is generating about $3,750 - $5,000 every shift they work. Now consider the revenue generated by the hundreds of motor officers employed in Los Angeles. The revenue can become staggering very quickly. Knowing of the massive revenue that traffic officers can generate is enough to make most people upset and this is frequently a motivating factor when deciding to fight a ticket.

Very few patrol officers generate this type of revenue because taking people to jail only costs money and does not generate revenue. Think about it, a person in jail has to be fed, cared for, supervised, housed, transported, and protected. These things all cost money, but write a ticket and the police department makes money, which is exactly why a motorcycle officer rarely gives a warning. If you believe that you got an unfair ticket, consider fighting the ticket. You don’t have to be the one to contribute to their revenue stream."

Source: http://speeding-ticket-blog.tickettutor.com/2008/01/12/the-truth-about-motor-cops-and-the-highway-patrol/

[motorman4life]

Really?

"Here are the facts about... ...their revenue stream."

Source: http://speeding-ticket-blog.tickettutor.com/2008/01/12/the-truth-about-motor-cops-and-the-highway-patrol/

Your "source" is tickettutor.com? Is that like getting BBQ advice from PETA?

Please read this thread: http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200289

[Rel]

Any update?

I had the arraignment so far. Still waiting for the trial. After the trial I will post the whole story. Until then mums the word.

[B-Cuz]

Really?

"Here are the facts about the real purpose of the Highway Patrol and Motorcycle Cops in every city. Their sole purpose is to generate revenue for their city, state, or county. Law enforcement officials will tell you motor cops are trying to reduce traffic accidents, which is true, but the revenue they generate can be significant. In the Los Angeles area, motor cops try to write between 15-20 citations during their shift. The city gets the revenue, or at least a portion of the revenue, that is collected by the courts. If the average ticket is $250 then each officer is generating about $3,750 - $5,000 every shift they work. Now consider the revenue generated by the hundreds of motor officers employed in Los Angeles. The revenue can become staggering very quickly. Knowing of the massive revenue that traffic officers can generate is enough to make most people upset and this is frequently a motivating factor when deciding to fight a ticket.

Very few patrol officers generate this type of revenue because taking people to jail only costs money and does not generate revenue. Think about it, a person in jail has to be fed, cared for, supervised, housed, transported, and protected. These things all cost money, but write a ticket and the police department makes money, which is exactly why a motorcycle officer rarely gives a warning. If you believe that you got an unfair ticket, consider fighting the ticket. You don’t have to be the one to contribute to their revenue stream."

Source: http://speeding-ticket-blog.tickettutor.com/2008/01/12/the-truth-about-motor-cops-and-the-highway-patrol/

Sometimes you shouldn't believe everything you read on the internet....except for that...and that, and that, and that...

[AFM#719]

Your "source" is tickettutor.com? Is that like getting BBQ advice from PETA?

Please read this thread: http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200289

:rofl

My source? I just need to look at our city's income sheets or talk with the two SC County Sheriffs that are my neighbors.

You keep up with the 'it's all about safety' kick! :shocker

[silverbelt]

:rofl

My source? I just need to look at our city's income sheets or talk with the two SC County Sheriffs that are my neighbors.

You keep up with the 'it's all about safety' kick! :shocker

Looks like Vallejo and Fremont need to reallocate resources to traffic division and grab their fair share of revenue :thumbup

[wsmc831]

:rofl

My source? I just need to look at our city's income sheets or talk with the two SC County Sheriffs that are my neighbors.

You keep up with the 'it's all about safety' kick! :shocker

So why are traffic divisions among the first to see cuts in manpower when funding is low? You'd think they'd simply put more officers out to make more money, right?


..this has been beaten to death, but the kiddies will always want to believe anything that justifies them complaining about tickets.

[motorman4life]

:rofl

My source? I just need to look at our city's income sheets or talk with the two SC County Sheriffs that are my neighbors.

You keep up with the 'it's all about safety' kick! :shocker
Okay, what was your city's net income (revenue) from traffic and parking citations last year? What was their gross spending for the vehicles (cars, motorcycles, pick-up trucks, radar trailer, inlcuding all maintenance, insurance, fuel and equipment) and staffing (including salaries and all benefits, and all training and overtime directed speciafically toward traffic and parking enforcement). Please do tell.

Ask your Deputy Sheriff friends how many tickets they have written in the past 12 months. Most Deputies I know write less than 10 a year... some have been Sheriff's for over 20 years and have NEVER written a moving violation. Look at the Sheriff's budget (should be on-line).. what percentage of their budget is from traffic enforcement revenue? I'm guessing it is less than 1%. Tell me I'm wrong.

So why are traffic divisions among the first to see cuts in manpower when funding is low? You'd think they'd simply put more officers out to make more money, right?
C'mon, don't throw LOGIC into the mix.. he found the answer he wanted to hear. Don't try to muddle things up with FACTS.

True enough... Oakland PD is a prime example. Back in like 2003 they were shorthanded and over budget on overtime... according to you, they would allocate MORE resources toward their CASH-COW. No, instead, they mothball ALL of their motorcycles and radar guns.. ALL of them.. and put them all on routine patrol for about a year. We are talking about MILLIONS of $$$$ in training and equipment that is dedicated to traffic enforcement, all grounded. Should the Chief be fired?

Kinda flies in the face of your revenue theory, doesn't it?

..this has been beaten to death, but the kiddies will always want to believe anything that justifies them complaining about tickets.

[DancingQueen]

This is an argument that unfortunately cannot be won on either side. Civilians will always find reasons to believe the theory that officers have a quota to fill, and officers will always have some witty comeback to attempt to prove them wrong. They have gone through years of training after all, however the truth will always lay somewhere between the lines in any given situation.

I find it sad that civilians view law enforcement as the modern age evil. Surely both civilians and LEO's are to blame, if people feel the need to push blame. Hell! Why don't we blame Merilyn Manson and Eminem, after all everybody knows that they put subliminal messages into their songs to make kids shoot each other at school. :rolleyes

All I'm saying is that the push has come to shove in this world. Every one is out for their own personal gain. Far too few people even take the time to get to know their neighbors anymore. Its so sad to remember a time when I could walk down my entire block, and stop in at any neighbor's house, always welcome. Now people sit hulled up in their house's, curtains drawn sucked into their HD TV's and laptops. The world has lost proper communication. Unfortunately, this leads to people having to learn how to communicate in classes designed for such purposes.

Sad isn't it? In today's society here in America, you must pay someone to teach you how to communicate effectively. What's worse is the fact that fairness and equality seems to have vanished in today's world. Or perhaps it was never really their to begin with? After all, in the stone age whoever had the bigger stick gained more power in a clan. Today, those sticks have turned into symbols and technology, still serving the same purpose to gain power over the masses. Might as well lasso a rope around my legs, brand me, and send me back out to pasture to grow a little more then round me up and cook me up for dinner. Moo! :laughing

Sadly, the more someone refers to civilians of a younger age as "kiddies" the more those "kiddies" are going to try to gain recognition as a fellow human being. After all, it is human nature to seek out equality in thy neighbors. I am not knit-picking at anyone's post in particular. Just stating the obvious, its what I do best. :thumbup

Never judge another until you have walked a mile in their shoes. You never know where they may be coming from or what experiences they have been through to cause them to react to situations in a way you would not agree with.

[NorCalBusa]

I found the fine disposition schedule and went to post it- but it's 32,000 characters long and BARF has a 20k limit. Any ideas?

[Rel]

Cut it in half?

I found the fine disposition schedule and went to post it- but it's 32,000 characters long and BARF has a 20k limit. Any ideas?

[motorman4life]

I found the fine disposition schedule and went to post it- but it's 32,000 characters long and BARF has a 20k limit. Any ideas?
Maybe post a LINK to the file and just post the totals or a summary in your message?

[Ace of Hearts]

One, I did not want to be cited for another relatively slow speeding ticket like the one I got in September of 2006 in Roseville, CA. It was the Roseville police popping everybody for speeding with a radar, generating enormous revenue. I was cited for less than 10 over in that case.

Yea, I live in Roseville, they do that. The moto unit will sit in groups of 4's off Roseville PKWY hidden around a condo complex and take turns popping'em. Then further down 2 motos will hide in the entrance to my work's parking. This is at the bottom of a hill, and what usually happens is when the light is green people get up a bit of speed as they go through the light and then WHAM!!!!!!!!! Lucky for me, I have to turn into that parking lot and I will never get nailed because I am slowing down to get into work.

Also, Roseville went to the trouble of lowering the posted limit from 45 to 40 in a number of areas, and they have those portable rader displays that show your speed as you drive by all over the place.