What is the name of your state? Washington
I was driving down I-5 South heading back to my home state California. I was driving by Lewis County in Washington going with the flow of the traffic which was 65-70mph in a 60 zone. I was pulled over by an officer for Negligent driving 2nd degree, him stating I was passing cars in the right lane and not giving car's length in between cars.
He also claimed I was going 80 when it would of been impossible in the conditions, being there were only two lanes. Now, I've done some research and I know Negligent driving has nothing to do with speed but I was fined $550 from the base fine of $250, so I'm wondering if speed did add onto the cost.
This is my first ticket and being from California, I don't have the time or money to travel back up for a court hearing which apparently I need to go to one if I wish for a deferral. So I'm only 19 and I'm a full-time student with a part time job. Can I use this to help lower the fine?
I'm planning to do a mitigation hearing by mail. What are the chances of getting my fine lowered and is there anything specific I should include?
Additionally, I'm still unsure about the whole 'passing on the right lane' thing. Is it illegal in Washington or most states? I mean there are signs that state for slower traffic to stay right so can this be used as part of a justification?
Thanks
I was driving down I-5 South heading back to my home state California. I was driving by Lewis County in Washington going with the flow of the traffic which was 65-70mph in a 60 zone. I was pulled over by an officer for Negligent driving 2nd degree, him stating I was passing cars in the right lane and not giving car's length in between cars.
He also claimed I was going 80 when it would of been impossible in the conditions, being there were only two lanes. Now, I've done some research and I know Negligent driving has nothing to do with speed but I was fined $550 from the base fine of $250, so I'm wondering if speed did add onto the cost.
This is my first ticket and being from California, I don't have the time or money to travel back up for a court hearing which apparently I need to go to one if I wish for a deferral. So I'm only 19 and I'm a full-time student with a part time job. Can I use this to help lower the fine?
I'm planning to do a mitigation hearing by mail. What are the chances of getting my fine lowered and is there anything specific I should include?
Additionally, I'm still unsure about the whole 'passing on the right lane' thing. Is it illegal in Washington or most states? I mean there are signs that state for slower traffic to stay right so can this be used as part of a justification?
Thanks