Q: Pulled over in Glendale on my way home, during a focused crack down on motorcyclists. Can I do anything?
I was on my way home on Friday evening, when a Glendale police officer on a motorcycle pulled me over.
The officer approached me and asked to see my license and registration. Before handing him the documents, I asked him why I was being pulled over. He proceeded to tell me it was due to my loud exhaust and lack of reflector on my license plate.
I gave him my documents and told him I didn’t appreciate being harassed for no legitimate reason. I further expanded on this, by saying these type of modifications can be found on virtually all sports motorcycles, and that all cars on the road can technically be pulled over for having something that doesn’t “meet” DOT standards.The officer agreed with my point, and said he’s only pulling me over because “…today we’re doing motorcycles, otherwise I’d let you go..”. In the end, he gave me a ticket for not having a light on my plate, which is hilarious, because that was the one thing that my motorcycle DOES have.
Can I do anything?
A: The officer might have been doing you a favor, citing you for something you could quickly get signed-off by police and then provide proof of correction to the court. Had he cited you for a loud exhaust, that would be a significant problem for you. Look at the positive. Seriously.
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