Q: My car was lawfully parked but had a clear license plate shield. Is a citation for violation of 5201.1. correctable?
The clear acrylic shield purchased from AutoZone attached to my automobile was not sold by me, nor does it (or is it intended to) obscure the reading or recognition of the license plate by visual means, nor do I "operate" my noncommercial private automobile CVC 260(b) in any commercial capacity CVC 260(a) whatsoever. Can I contest the ticket and show the "error" has been corrected by removing the clear cover?
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- California
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A:
You can contest the ticket by showing that the clear license plate shield has been removed. California Vehicle Code Section 5201.1 prohibits any covering or material that obstructs or impairs the reading or recognition of the license plate by visual means, regardless of the material's transparency. Even though you believe the shield does not obscure the plate, law enforcement often interprets any cover as a potential violation.
You can argue that the ticket should be corrected by demonstrating that you have removed the shield. In many cases, judges may consider this a correctable violation, which could result in the citation being dismissed upon showing proof of correction. It’s essential to remove the cover and bring proof of this action, like photographs or the actual cover, to court.
Prepare to explain your situation calmly and provide evidence that you've complied with the law by removing the shield. This approach may increase your chances of having the citation dismissed.
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