Reader: I'm Proof That Advice to Ignore Photo-Radar Tickets Is Terrible

One of our most read recent Comments of the Day involved a reader's suggestion that people shouldn't pay their photo-radar tickets. His argument: The letters sent to drivers "ARE NOT an actual citation, summons, infraction, etc.," and the city will not serve violators because "it's logistically cost-prohibitive, if not even...

By Michael Roberts

June 15, 2015

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One of our most read recent Comments of the Day involved a reader's suggestion that people shouldn't pay their photo-radar tickets.

His argument: The letters sent to drivers "ARE NOT an actual citation, summons, infraction, etc.," and the city will not serve violators because "it's logistically cost-prohibitive, if not even physically impossible."

This manifesto prompted a slew of feedback, including the following note from someone who says he knows the reader's advice is wrong from bitter personal experience.

He requested anonymity ; bet you can guess why. Here's what he had to say.

One Who Knows writes:

I just finished reading the letter regarding the advice of a reader to ignore photo radar tickets issued in Denver because the City will not pursue collection. From personal experience in the last ninety days, I can emphatically state that he is incorrect — as I was personally served with a citation to either pay the designated fine or appear in court on a day certain to contest the matter!!!

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts. For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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