In early May, I met a friend in downtown Durango. I parked on East Second Avenue. After the night’s passing hours of catching up, along with consumption of several alcoholic drinks, I decided to leave my vehicle overnight and walk home.
I knew it would be best because being an emergency medical technician student, I’ve seen risky behavior outcomes gone wrong when under the influence of alcohol. I never operate a vehicle when under the influence.
The next day, I found a yellow ticket with a fine of $25 for violation of a city ordinance of “No Parking 2am-5am.” I thought it best to submit a protest to the Municipal Court to explain my above reasoning.
The court mailed back a Protest Dismissed/Citation Upheld notice, calling me liable for the violation because “no exceptions are noted in ordinance.”
That got me confused about this city’s ability to hear a citizen’s justification or reasoning about a situation that results in a violation and fine.
Does the city still think we’re law-abiding citizens when, with good judgment, we decide not to follow the parking laws in certain situations?
Note to self: I should have moved my vehicle just a street up, even when intoxicated, to avoid the city’s judgment for my inaction.
Dyllon Mills
Durango
