Blowing Through the Red Light

Above the law

“Can I see your driver’s license?” Officer Ramirez asked.

“Why do you need to see my license? What if I told you I didn’t have one? Does it look like I need a license, Officer?”

“Why actually, yes it does. You ran right through that red light. Not even close. In fact, I saw it. You did stop. Kudos on that. You looked both ways, and went on through, without regard for anyone else but yourself.”

The man pulled out an ID and handed it to the officer.

“I don’t think you know what you’re talking about, Officer. No one was coming. I pay to be on these roads too.”

Officer Ramirez read the print on the ID.

“Misterrrr Mason, I am citing you because you admittedly failed to observe clear signs and signals. Eh, you ran a red light.”

Ramirez handed the ticket to Mason.

“Unbelievable,” Thad Mason said. “This has got to be a joke.”

“No joke, Mr. Mason. Why you think you’re immune to the traffic signals in this city is beyond me. By disregarding the signal altogether, you’ve endangered the lives of others who might not have seen you at the intersection. The traffic signals are there for a reason.”

“That’s the end of it then?”

“Unless you have something further you’d like to state,” Officer Ramirez said.

“See you in traffic court then.”

“Fair enough. Word of advice though. On your ride over to the courthouse, don’t forget to obey the laws. The City’s cracking down on cyclists such as yourself who disrespect the laws and think they own the whole road. Part of our “Keep the City Safe” campaign. Cute helmet though. Have a nice day.”