Real tickets and pretend violations
Shortly after moving to Virginia in 2001, I received a traffic ticket for speeding. I was doing 40 in a 30 on a boulevard I'd still argue should be marked 55 based on the traffic patterns. But I paid the fine and tried not to speed there again.
Sticking with the trend of relocation + ticket, I was lagged last night for turning at a red light apparently marked as No Turn on Red.
Between you and me, I've been turning on red at this light since early October. I guess the ticket was inevitable. But, I truly didn't know the warning was posted, and confirmed on the way home tonight the sign is near impossible to see in the dark.
Here's a bit of Colorado quirk: The ticket is a little over $100 and comes with 3 points. Yay. But, if I pay the ticket within 20 days, the cost drops closer to $70 and there won't be points assessed. The "improper turn" offense will also convert to "broken headlamp." Huh?
Okay, Colorado. I'll pay your ticket within 20 days. And I'll fix that uh, headlamp problem, ASAP. Wink.
Apparently it's not until you live or commute downtown that you truly experience the teeth-grinding ire of a jaywalker crossing your path.

