Resident pays high price for overdue sticker

Warning. Check the decal on your windshield. It may be time for your car to be inspected. I was recently stopped by a police officer in Highland Park who issued me a ticket because my car had not been inspected when due. The fine? A shocking $130.

No matter that I was used to being reminded by the state of New Jersey when my car registration came due — apparently, the state no longer does that. No matter that the officer herself admitted that the rules had changed so much recently and were now so confusing that many people were “getting caught.” No matter that the very next day I had my car inspected without any problem. And no matter that I had not committed a really serious infraction such as running a red light, rolling through a stop sign, or in any way putting myself or anyone else in danger. A warning would have been sufficient for me to run to the nearest inspection station. I would gladly have reported back to the officer when my car had been properly inspected.

I’ve always believed that laws were made to help maintain a civil and fair society. Now it appears that local governments are collecting a bonanza from people like me.

So, dear readers, check your stickers. I have so far caused two friends, who had made the same mistake, to get their cars inspected and avoid a $130 fine. I hope to do the same with many of you.

I must continue to see my doctor in Highland Park, but I will never spend another cent in that town, not in the restaurants I enjoy nor in any retail establishment.

So, Highland Park, enjoy spending my money.

Jo Marchisotto

East Brunswick