Tuesday, January 15th, 2008

From the mailbag:

Dear Gridlock Sam,

Recently two co-workers’ vehicles unfortunately broke down, one in a bus stop and one during ASP. In both instances, a traffic agent came and issued a ticket. Both provided garage receipts showing repairs and both were found guilty, even on appeal. What is Department of Finance’s policy when it comes to tickets because of a breakdown?

Bob, L.I.C

Dear Bob,

Parking judges may dismiss the summons if it’s made clear to them that 1- the car was fully disabled and had to be towed and 2- the towing occurred expeditiously (my judgment is within an hour of the summons). Just showing a receipt that the car was repaired is not enough. Here’s the gospel from DOF: “It’s the expeditious removal of the vehicle that is required. The fact that a vehicle is removed and repaired is not the ultimate basis. It’s the credibility of the evidence that shows it was expeditiously removed from the violation location.”

Gridlock Sam