[ZTWsquared]

(01-31-2013, 02:00 AM)drunkinmonkey Wrote: ticket wont do anything to your insurance. only time a ticket hinders your insurance is if you get points taken off.

in your case your in the wrong. id pay it and install a muffler of some kind

only reall things that go to your insurance is speeding over a certain limit, seat belt, stunting, DUI,stuff like that

Just as a general rule you should consider that any ticket, under some circumstances, can affect your insurance; for example even if the ticket doesn't deduct points if you have enough of them, the total number of tickets can increase your premiums.

In terms of whether or not you fight, you should find the exact wording of the law. How do they define improper? If it is by loudness only did the cop take an actual db reading with a machine, or was it merely his opinion.

Did he actually look under your car to see what was there? If not, how would he know whether or not it was improper - in the law is there a distinction between an improper muffler compared to one that is broken or not working properly?

Another consideration is probable cause - you should find out exactly how loud your exhaust is compared to what the law says you are allowed. If your db ratings are in fact within the limits, and the cop didn't use a db meter to measure your loudness, then why did he stop you other than his personal opinion.

Bottom line: who decides what is an improper exhaust and by what criteria? If it's based on an actual db reading and the cop didn't take one, you will not be found guilty in court because the officer has no evidence except his opinion.

In court, your opinion is supposed to have the same equal value as the cops unless they can impeach you in some way.

Sorry for rambling - first step is you need to find out what the law says and how they define the thing you are charged with.