How to Handle a Traffic Ticket Issued on Highway 1 in San Mateo County
Start fighting your traffic ticket in under a minute
Highway 1 in San Mateo County is one of California’s most scenic drives — a breathtaking route hugging the coastline with ocean views, cliffs, and rolling hills. But for all its beauty, it’s also a deceptively challenging road. Sudden turns, changing speed limits, and frequent tourist traffic make it a hotspot for citations. Many drivers find themselves ticketed not because they’re reckless, but because they’re caught up in the view or following the flow of traffic that’s moving faster than posted limits.
Areas near Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, and Montara are particularly active enforcement zones. California Highway Patrol (CHP) units often park just beyond turns or rises in elevation where drivers tend to speed up after slowing for curves. This will lead to San Mateo traffic tickets and violations.
Common Reasons for Citations
Speeding and distracted driving remain the most common violations on this stretch. The road’s winding nature makes it easy to lose focus, and frequent lane changes near beach access points add to the risk. Some drivers also get cited for improper passing or crossing solid yellow lines. Enforcement increases during weekends and summer months when tourism peaks.
If you’re commuting through the area, be especially cautious during early morning fog, which can obscure signage and make judging speed difficult.
Responding to a Ticket
If you receive a citation, take time to carefully review the instructions on how to respond. San Mateo County’s Superior Court system allows you to handle most steps online — whether paying, requesting traffic school, or scheduling a court date. Always check the deadline listed on the ticket; missing it could result in added penalties or a license hold. If you’re from out of the area, most correspondence can be managed remotely, saving you the trip.
Considering a Court Appearance
If you believe the citation was issued in error, you can contest it either in person or by written declaration. If appearing in court, bring any relevant evidence such as photos of the roadway, signage, or traffic conditions. Clear, polite communication with the judge or court clerk goes a long way toward a smoother process.
Safe Driving on Coastal Roads
Highway 1’s charm can easily distract even experienced drivers. Staying focused means using turnouts to let faster cars pass, maintaining a steady pace through curves, and adjusting for wind or fog. Slowing down near towns and watching for sudden pedestrian crossings near beaches can help prevent accidents and tickets alike.
Remember: coastal driving isn’t about speed — it’s about control and awareness. Treating every curve with respect keeps you, your passengers, and others safe on this iconic California road.
Trial by Written Declaration
A Convenient Way to Handle a San Mateo County Traffic Ticket
California drivers in San Mateo County can use the Trial by Written Declaration process to contest their tickets entirely by mail. There’s no need to appear in court—just submit your written defense and evidence. If the court rules in your favor, your ticket is dismissed. GetDismissed simplifies this process for San Mateo drivers, preparing everything you need to give your case the best chance of success.
Follow a manual added link
Photograph your ticket & license.
*If you don’t have your ticket handy, it’s okay — you can still start the process and just add it later!
Follow a manual added link
Provide info through guided questions.
*Be sure to quickly add as many notes about the stop as you can so you don’t leave out any important details!
Follow a manual added link
Sign & send your defense to court.
*We will send you a completed packet for the court that just needs your signature and a stamp!
What Types of Tickets Do We Help With?
GetDismissed produces results in fighting all kinds of tickets. Unfortunately, this list does not include exhibition of speed citations. Your best bet in fighting one of these infractions, is to contact an attorney. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to try and reduce fines, or even to reduce the charges to a lesser infraction which could possibly qualify for traffic school.
We do however, contest infractions revolving around speeding, red lights, red light cameras, cell phones, signs (primarily stop signs), carpool violations, U-turns, out of lane violations, and commercial violations. If you receive a citation and have questions, contact us today.
