The Dreaded Red Light Ticket: Points, Panic, and a Possible Pigeon Problem (in NYC)
Ah, the red light. That glowing crimson octagon that separates lawful drivers from horn-honking anarchy. But sometimes, even the most righteous driver gets caught out by a tricky yellow light or a rogue squirrel darting across the street (hey, it happens!). So, you glance down at that fateful ticket in your hand and a cold sweat slicks your brow. How many points is this gonna cost you? Will your driving record be forever stained? Will you be reduced to using those sad, neon green carpool lane stickers forevermore?
Hold onto your horns, folks, because the answer is...
It depends! (Insert dramatic music here).
Now, before you throw your hands up in exasperation, let's break it down like a rogue disco ball raining glitter squares.
The Classic Red Light Bust: A Pointy Situation
If you got pulled over by a police officer with a disapproving stare and a ticket machine that whirs with the glee of a thousand parking tickets, then you're looking at a possible two-point penalty. Two whole points! That's like losing two points in a game of driver's ed Monopoly!
But here's the good news (sort of): traffic cops aren't psychic. They gotta be super sure you blatantly disregarded the red light. So, if there's any wiggle room (like a questionable yellow light), you might be able to fight the ticket and keep your driving record squeaky clean.
The Red Light Camera Caper: Points? More Like Pocket Change
Now, let's say you got tagged by one of those sneaky red light cameras. Those guys are everywhere, like pigeons waiting for a dropped french fry. Well, fret not, fellow driver! Red light camera tickets in NYC are a point-free zone. You just gotta cough up a $50 fine, which is basically the cost of a fancy pigeon-shaped stress ball (not recommended, trust me).
The Ultimate Point-Avoidance Tip: Don't Run Red Lights (Duh)
Alright, alright, Captain Obvious here. But seriously, avoiding red lights is the best way to steer clear of points, fines, and the wrath of disgruntled pedestrians. Think of it as your chance to become a superhero of traffic safety!
So there you have it, folks. The not-so-secret world of red light tickets in NYC. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in keeping your driving record spotless. And hey, if you do end up with a ticket, just think of it as a donation to the city's ever-expanding pigeon surveillance network (unofficial, but probably true).
