After this Colorado driver was issued a ticket for exiting a lane that said it was closed, she chose to fight the city — and she managed to get it dropped for herself and 48 other motorists

Ticketed for doing the ‘safe thing’

Unsure how to handle the dispute process alone, Elliott sought assistance from 9News. Reporter Steve Staeger looked into data from the spot where Elliott was caught exiting the lane and learned that she wasn’t the only driver ticketed.

Staeger discovered that 48 other drivers had been ticketed for toll weaving at the same spot, on the same day. It became clear there was a systemic problem, not individual negligence.

“I’d been warned twice now that the lane was closed, so I chose to get out of the lane because that was the smart and safe thing to do,” Elliott said of her decision to exit the toll lane.

When she crossed the double white line indicating no lane changing allowed, the move triggered the fine.

Just days before a scheduled hearing to review Elliott’s dispute, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) abruptly canceled it without explanation. This, after Staeger had pressed for answers about what happened and learned nearly 50 other drivers were also ticketed — more than four times the daily average for that stretch of highway.

CDOT told 9News that the red “X” signifying the lane closure, and prompting Elliott’s lane exit, had been mistakenly left on after an accident the night before. The “X” was never turned off, which likely explains the dozens of toll-weaving violations the next day. CDOT has since wiped away those violations and has promised refunds to any driver who paid a ticket without disputing it, returning a collective $3,600 to the affected motorists.

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Holding bureaucracy accountable

Elliott’s determination highlights how important it is for drivers to question seemingly unjust citations, especially when road conditions and signs cause confusion. Her willingness to push back not only cleared her name but also benefited many others who may have been unjustly penalized.

What should you do if you receive a questionable ticket?

• Document everything. Take clear pictures or videos, if safely possible, of the scene to capture confusing signs or road conditions.

• File a formal dispute, promptly. The complaint should include detailed explanations and your evidence. Early documentation can make or break your case.

• What if I’m rejected? Don’t stop there. Consider seeking help from local advocacy groups or media outlets known for investigating consumer issues. These groups often have resources and influence you may lack individually.