[quote name='Liquid 2']You're reachin', James.
I can't afford to lose though. I really, really don't want to drop over two hundred dollars on this garbage. The $140 it's going to cost me if I go for defensive driving is already way too much.
I need this ticket gone, but I'd hate to have to pay $60 more if the cop appears in court. Fuuuuuuuuuck.[/QUOTE]
If you show up, the total you pay should be lower than the fine they're already asking for.
Either way, you're going to pay up. It sucks, but you know what sucks the most? Having to pay more every single month for car insurance. Your local gov doesn't give a shit if insurance companies make more money, so I'm sure they're more than willing to settle for something less than what's already tacked against you.
Trust me, when you show up to court, they'll have guys in jumpsuits shackled to their seat. That court has bigger fish to fry and they'll move you through as quickly as possible.
I just really really hope you weren't rude to the cop. He'll remember and if you were nice, you'll walk away with just a slightly lighter wallet.