Have you seen the list of Fines levied by the City of Raymondville for traffic violations?

I picked up a copy of a Courtesy Letter from Municipal Judge Armin Martinez at the city meeting last week and it was a real eye opener.

I guess its been a while since I have had a traffic ticket. As I recall, I used to get them all the time. DPS Trooper Henry Cespedes used to catch me flyin low on Expressway 77 between Harlingen and Raymondville.

In fact, at one time I got so many tickets I had to get a lawyer to explain to the judge why I needed to keep my Texas drivers license.

I believe that Trooper Cespedes is retired now and I have also retired --- from speeding that is and its a good thing that I have because I couldn't afford the fines listed by Judge Martinez on his Courtesy letter.

I don't believe I ever paid more than $50 or $60 as a fine for a traffic ticket, but get a load of what it will cost you in 2010 if you get hauled into Municipal Court.

Speeding 1-10 mph over the limit $155.00

Speeding 11-19 over the limit $245.00

Speeding 20-29 over the limit $298.00

No drivers license $270.00 Expired drivers license $130.00

Expired inspection sticker $130.00

Seat Belt Violation 150.00

Seat Belt Violation (under 17) $220.00

Child Safety Seat Violation $120.00

Unsafe Speed $220.00 No liability insurance $330.00

Violate Promise to Appear $325.00

You can avoid these fines if you drive safely and don't get a citation, or, if you agree to take a Safe Driving Course. Even then, you have to pay a $108.00 fine and only a cashier's check or money order will be accepted.

The editor