Understanding the Consequences of Speeding in a School Zone During a Speed Limit Changeover

Your question is a bit ambiguous, but let's add a few details to what I assume you are talking about: the zone in question has a lower speed limit, for example, 25 mph, during certain fixed times on school days and/or when warning lights on the speed limit sign are flashing. At other times, a higher speed limit prevails. You were stopped and ticketed by a police officer at just about the time when the special 'school zone' speed limit was about to end and the regular limit was about to go back into effect. The cop claims he ticketed you before the changeover occurred, while you deny this and say the changeover had already just occurred, and you responded accordingly. Let's delve into what might happen in this situation.

What Happens at the Scene

The first thing to keep in mind is that you got a ticket. That means there is no point in arguing with the cop at the scene. Take care to note the pertinent details — maybe take a picture with your camera phone, and include the timestamp showing that the lights are no longer flashing or just photograph the speed limit sign with the applicable times indicated, alongside the camera's timestamp. This evidence can be crucial later.

Responding to the Ticket

Your ticket will tell you what you need to do if you want to request a trial. Read and follow its instructions. Sometimes, a trial is set in automatically if you do nothing. If necessary, write back to the address indicated on the ticket and ask for one. DO NOT PAY THE FINE unless the ticket specifically tells you that you can do so AND still preserve your right to plead "not guilty" and have a trial.

Understand that even if you do all the above and are honestly convinced you are in the right, this is a "he said—she said" type of situation. It will come down to a matter of credibility. Also, realize that traffic court is often tilted in favor of the cop's version of what happened, both because judges are more inclined to believe the cop is telling the truth than someone trying to get out of paying a ticket, and because one major purpose of traffic fines is to generate revenue for the government.

Possible Outcomes in Traffic Court

If you are very lucky, the cop will not show up for the trial, and the case against you will be dismissed if the judge doesn't do that himself. Be sure to ask for a dismissal because the State was not able to prove its case against you, as it has the burden of proof. If you are moderately lucky, the judge might listen to all the evidence and rule in your favor, especially if you have documented your claim and appear credible and articulate. However, don't count on it, even if you have done all those things.

If you are just a little bit lucky, the judge will rule against you but in consideration of the mitigating circumstances, will lower the fine below what it would have been by default if you had just paid the fine and not gone to court. This is probably the most likely option, so long as you are well-prepared and credible. But if you come across as a jerk, a liar, or disrespectful to the cop, to the court, or any of dozens of other things you could do wrong if you are clueless about how to behave in court, the judge could throw the book at you and impose a fine even higher than the default fine. So, there is some risk involved in taking it to court.

The last thing any judge wants on his public record is to come across as being cavalier about the safety of children. Make sure you are well-prepared, present a credible and respectful argument, and bring any supporting evidence you may have to your court appearance.

Key Points to Remember

Do not argue with the cop at the scene; take pertinent details and evidence. Follow the instructions on the ticket and ask for a trial if needed. Do not pay the fine without preserving your right to the trial. Be credible and respectful in traffic court to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of traffic court can be crucial in resolving disputes related to traffic violations. Whether you are dealing with a school zone speed limit changeover or any other traffic issue, proper preparation and a respectful approach can significantly impact the outcome of your case.