So You Snagged a Speeding Ticket in the Windy City, Eh? Don't Brick Your Wallet Just Yet!
Ah, Chicago. City of deep dish pizza, jazz music, and...speed cameras that lurk around corners like overzealous paparazzi. Let's face it, we've all been there. You're cruising down Lake Shore Drive, the wind whipping through your hair (or maybe it's just that sunroof you forgot to close), feeling like a boss. Then, a flash! Suddenly, you're questioning your life choices and wondering how much damage that little red light just did to your bank account.
Hold onto your hats (and wallets), speed demons, because we're here to break down the not-so-shocking world of Chicago speed camera tickets!
The Great Speeding Ticket Breakdown: How Much Did You Really Mess Up?
Now, before you start selling your beanie baby collection to pay the speeding ticket fairy, here's the good news: Chicago has a tiered system for speeding camera tickets. It's kind of like a video game – the more you mess up, the steeper the penalty.
-
Congratulations, You Rebel! (But Not Really): Were you just channeling your inner NASCAR driver and going a measly 6-10 mph over the speed limit? Slap a high five on yourself, because that'll only set you back $35. Not exactly a walk in the park, but definitely better than, say, having to explain that giant pizza-shaped dent in your car to your significant other.
-
Uh Oh, You Done Goofed: Did you get a little too excited about that green light and zoom past the speed limit by 11 mph or more? Buckle up, buttercup, because that little joyride is gonna cost you a cool $100. Ouch. Maybe that fancy latte can wait this week.
Here's the kicker: These fines are just the beginning, folks. Like a bad penny, late fees have a way of multiplying those numbers faster than you can say 'speed trap.' So, pay those tickets on time, or you might be looking at a much bigger dent in your wallet than you bargained for.
Pro-Tip: How to Avoid that Annoying Flash (Besides Laying Off the Lead Foot)
-
Become a Speed Limit Sherlock: Those little white signs with numbers on them? Yeah, those are actually there for a reason! Pay attention to them, memorize them, and be their best friend.
-
Channel Your Inner Grandma: Seriously, slow and steady wins the race, especially when it comes to avoiding speed cameras. Cruise along, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even sing along to some classic Chicago blues.
-
Befriend a Waze Warrior: There's a reason Waze exists, people. Use it to your advantage and let it warn you about those pesky speed cameras lurking around the next corner.
Look, speeding tickets are no laughing matter, but a little humor can help soften the blow. Just remember, the next time you feel the need for speed, think of that delicious deep dish pizza you could be buying instead. Now that's a much tastier consequence, wouldn't you say?
