TIME FOR TRAFFIC COURT

It was a late fall morning. I was on my way to a doctor's appointment. Just a month before, I had had a spot show up on my mammogram. A week later, I had a biopsy. That morning I was driving to my gynecologist to find out if I would have to have a lumpectomy or a mastectomy.

I have to admit that I was distressed. I made a left turn into the parkway and ran into a car that was going across the parkway. I sat in the car stunned, waiting for the police.

And then, my phone rang.

"We need to reschedule your appointment," the young voice said.

It was obvious to the policeman, my husband, and even myself that I was at fault. Even worse, I was so embarrassed. This was my first accident in almost twenty-five years.

As the policeman showed me the ticket, he said. "You have to go to the traffic court." He circled the time and the phone number. "If the time is not convenient, you can call this number and reschedule." He left me standing there with the ticket. My husband showed up, put me in the truck, talked to the policeman, and made sure that my car headed for an auto-body shop.

Later that day, I learned I had to have breast surgery.

About two weeks later, I was at traffic court. I wore my blue suit. I figured that I needed every advantage. The tension in my gut increased as I watched other traffic violators stand in front of the judge. Maybe it was the clothing. Most of the violators were dressed in jeans and T-shirts. Maybe it was the language. One guy swore every other word. But the judge seemed harsh. The sentences seemed hard.

It was my turn.

I stood before the judge and took a deep breath. I gave him a description of the accident. The judge was more concerned that I had insurance.

"So," he said. "You are not my usual customer. What happened?"

"I was distracted," I said. "Recently, I was diagnosed with a tumor and possible breast cancer. I just wasn't looking like I should."

The judge smiled at me. "Come and sit down." He pointed at a chair near the bench.

After I sat down, he explained that he was not going to charge me, but I would still have to pay for the court fees. I nodded. "Take care of your health," the judge said. "And, watch where you are going. I don't want to see you again."

I have heard traffic court horror stories. But for me, I am still grateful to the kind judge who worried about my health. If you are wondering, I did have a lumpectomy. Fortunately, it was not cancerous.

Learn more about this author, Cyn Bagley.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Memoirs: Traffic court?
We want to hear your view. Write now!