Q: Do I have to sign a ticket in the state of Georgia
My friend and I were pulled over for going to slow in the left lane. Mine you there were no cars behind her, she had went around a truck and stayed in the left lane. The officer stated that she was driving to slow 48 in a 55 zone. Other cars need to pass that was going faster. The only cars were the two officers in separate vehicles following her. That’s why she broke the little speed she was going. Anyone see a cop especially a black person they are slowing down. I have seen people get away with all kinds of traffic violations, but to give her a ticket and throw this THE SLOW POKE LAW on us. It was new to our surprise, but he could have easily haven giving her a warning!!!
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A:
Signing a ticket is not an admission of guilt, but rather, acknowledgement of the court date on it. It is important to note that most moving violations in Georgia are considered criminal misdemeanors, meaning that they are punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Additionally, Georgia law (OCGA 40-13-2.1(a)) states:
"A person who is issued a citation as provided in this chapter or Code Section 17-6-11, relating to display of driver's license in lieu of bail, shall sign the citation to acknowledge receipt of the citation and of his or her obligation to appear for trial. The officer shall advise the person that signing the citation is not an admission of guilt and that failure to sign will result in the person having to post a cash bond. If the person refuses to sign the citation, it shall constitute reasonable cause to believe that the person will not appear at trial and the officer may bring the person before a judicial officer or traffic violations bureau to post a bond as is otherwise provided by law."
So, refusing to sign a ticket may result in your being arrested and taken to jail where you will have to post a bond to be released. Best just to sign it! If you don't agree with the charge, you can go to court and fight it there.
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