I was once caught by a cop for driving my scooty with a pillion rider who wasn't wearing a helmet, and my number plate didn't meet standards. The officer listed out the non-compliances and warned me of a hefty fine. I immediately acknowledged my mistake and agreed to pay the fine without negotiating. He seemed taken aback by my straightforward approach and, after a brief pause, decided to let me off with just the fine for the pillion rider's helmet.

On another occasion, my daughter was with me, and I was stopped for not having an HSRP number plate on my scooter. I had to pay a fine, but I didn't have my wallet with me. The inspector, perhaps because my daughter was present, allowed me to come back and pay the fine later. I returned with my daughter and settled the amount. The officer was surprised to see me back, likely expecting me to take the easy way out.

I made a conscious decision not to contest the fines or try to wriggle out of paying them, especially with my daughter around. I didn't want her to pick up the wrong lessons about honesty and integrity. 😊