THAT AIN’T RIGHT!

Since moving out of New York City, I have learned how to adjust to certain commuter issues. Walking and Subways are the two standard options. Now, if I want to come into the city on the weekend, its better to drive than to find a train schedule. Parking is a whole other issue. Commuting prior to the move, was a walk to Subway, not really paying attention to any traffic regulations except the crosswalk signals. White Figure? GO! Red Hand? Stop! Simple.

So this weekend, I was heading into the City. Naturally I took the Lincoln Tunnel. Without a thought, I veered off to the exit from the tunnel that gets me to about 34th St. I figure I can head east and then to 7th Ave and then head south. You know, typical NYC navigation.

As I make my right turn onto 7th, there were 2 policewomen pointing at me. I thought to myself, “what happened here?” I crept along, then I saw another policewoman, signaling for me to pull over. “Excuse me Sir, do you know why I pulled you over?” Was my taillight out? Can’t be, it’s a brand new car. What the hell could I have done? We were stuck in traffic, so my top speed couldn’t have been more than 4 mph. I was positive it was a green light, so I didn’t take a right on red. Besides, a bus in front of me made the turn as well. “Uhhhh, No.” Followed by a smile. “It’s because you made a right onto 7th Ave.” She explained. “Yeeeaaaahhhhh?” I questioned. “Well, from 8a-8p you are not allowed to make rights on 34th St, except for buses.” I SMELL POLICE TRAP! “You’re joking, right?” I replied “No, Sir, can I have your drivers license and registration?”

After about 15 minutes double-parked in front of The Garden, narrowly escaping many rear end collisions, she returned. “Here is where you send in your plea and if you…” I interrupted: “Yeah, yeah, let me see what the damage is? 90 BUCKS! PLUS 2 POINTS ON YOUR LICENSE?” WTF!

Apparently, 4,000,000 people have been struck by cars and killed over the last 2 years, so they just added these signs along all of 34th St. And while we waited for our ticket, 5 other vehicles were pulled over as well, so I guess its safer to have 10 cars (yes, my math is wrong, I’m making a point) double-parked in front of one of the busiest intersections, than to make a proper right-hand turn. And what’s better? Two of those cars are, yes, CABS! The kings of New York City streets.

I pleaded Not Guilty and we will have our day in the hot sun. Please pass it along to any other New Yorker or visitor if you feel to do so. JUSTICE WILL BE SERVED!

~ by bigspot on February 19, 2008.