2007-10-30T09:32:39-07:00
5055
3230
4246
1
2007-10-30T09:32:39-07:00
2007-10-30T09:32:39-07:00
<p>I've been pulled over five times in Bulgaria and am yet to either be issued a ticket or pay a fine. Here are my tricks, and please add your own in the comments section. I am sure this is not an exhaustive list.<br><br>1. For starters, if you can speak the local language or they speak English, introduce yourself with your name and your occupation - an EU, USAID or UN development worker focused on <b><i>anti-corruption projects</i></b> in a nearby city. You'll be on your way in no time.<br><br>2. "What? This isn't a highway?" Many roads aren't signed with the speed limit - you're expected to know what it is for that type of road. Pleading the one-two punch of ignorance - telling them you thought you were on a 130km/hour road instead of a 70km/hour - and mercy can actually go a surprisingly long way. <br><br>3. Bring an international drivers license with you. You can pick one up at AAA in the states. They're relatively easy, cheap and quick to get. And they come in real handy when a cop begins to play the "How do I know what a 'Class B' license in California license is? How do I know this isn't for tractors?" game.</p><p> </p><p>4. Decline the opportunity to pay the "ticket" on the spot. Sometimes, police will warn you that a ticket will need to paid before crossing the border and that it will be easier and faster to do it on the spot. Graciously thank them but let them know you'd rather pay it at the border. They'll be more focused on trying to find someone else to shake down than spending the time to actually write you out a ticket. <br><br>5. Try not to be the most outrageous driver on the road... it's not that hard to do in most of the former Eastern Block. <br><br></p>
11987
3230
1
5055
1
2007-10-30T09:36:30-07:00