How can I dispute this parking ticket?

Question

I parked on a spot during street cleaning and I received a ticket and was towed only four minutes into the time period..I live in NYC and we had a big storm this morning and last night. I believe that it is very unjust and unfair to tow during a tropical storm. I went to dispute it in person but the judge did not listen and ignored my statements about the bad weather..HOWEVER, I can appeal his decision and have to write a statement, does anyone have any ideas?? I think $230 for this kind of ticket is ridiculous...

Answer 1

You can appeal but I'd say your chances are minimal. The area was obviously marked, in that you knew it was one. Generally, the only grounds for a successful appeal are missing signage, bad procedure, or exigent circumstances (such as perhaps the car was disabled due to accident and had a corresponding police report). Storms are not usually accepted.

Answer 2

I don't think that the weather is an acceptable defense, especially if a state of emergency was NOT declared. Just because you didn't want to get wet while moving your car doesn't make it OK to park illegally.

Answer 3

You were wrong. You have no reasonable defense.