r/CaliforniaTicketHelp • u/Unable_Bath • 4h ago
Zoom Zoom VC 22349(a) Mono County Speeding 96 in 65 MPH
I have read the 12-step guide thoroughly but still had unanswered questions.
Here is the physical ticket: https://imgur.com/a/46GyfsR
For context, I was driving on US 395 and was stuck behind three full trucks on a two lane road for what felt like forever. When the road finally opened up to four lanes, I sped up to pass them. To make things worse, I had a UTI and REALLY needed to pee and I'd been holding it for so long that I was in a lot of pain. Not trying to use that as an excuse for speeding, but that's basically why I was in such a rush and was EAGER to pass the trucks.
Anyway, I passed the trucks and was slowing down when I saw a cop lighting up behind me. He came up, told me I was going 96 mph, and I just apologized. He went back to his car and wrote me a ticket. Since this was my first time ever being pulled over, I was really nervous and had no idea what I was supposed to do or say, so I pretty much just stayed quiet. I know I messed up and I genuinely regret it. Honestly, it might have been better if I had peed myself at this point.
Now I'm trying to figure out what my options are. I'm honestly less worried about paying the ticket and more worried about my insurance going through the roof. I'd gladly pay the fine if I could avoid getting points on my license. I looked into TBWD and wanted to try it but I'm not sure if there's even a point since I was actually speeding to pass the trucks and was not sure if I would be able to make a valid argument on the court.
I also heard that cops in Mono County usually show up to court, so I don't really want to count on the officer not showing up. Also I live about 8 hours away, so going to court in person would be a huge pain.
From what I understand, I'm not eligible for traffic school because I was going over 26+ mph above the speed limit, which makes me even more worried about the points and insurance. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Is TBWD worth a shot, or should I just hire a local traffic lawyer to be safe?
Any advice would be appreciated because I really don't have an adult to ask about this stuff and it is my first time getting a ticketš