SFMTA fare evasion ticket... what should I do next?

I got a fare evasion ticket from SFMTA last month, but I already paid for my ticket through their app. The issue is, the ticket didn’t display because of a mobile signal problem. I protested to SFMTA right away, but they rejected it saying I didn’t have enough proof. Anyone know what I can do now? I’m pretty frustrated and need advice.

That’s rough, I’ve been in a similar situation before. Have you tried contacting the app’s customer support? Maybe they can help you with proof or give you a record of the transaction.

Aspen said:
That’s rough, I’ve been in a similar situation before. Have you tried contacting the app’s customer support? Maybe they can help you with proof or give you a record of the transaction.

Yeah, I did that once. They gave me a confirmation email that really helped with my case. It’s worth a shot!

Aspen said:
That’s rough, I’ve been in a similar situation before. Have you tried contacting the app’s customer support? Maybe they can help you with proof or give you a record of the transaction.

Does the app even have a feature for seeing purchase history? I guess that might be useful for showing proof.

@Zuri
Yep, most apps have that, you can check the transaction history. Might help if you get a timestamped screenshot!

You can try appealing the rejection again. SFMTA usually has a formal appeal process. Just make sure to include everything, like your bank records, app purchase history, and the signal issue. They might reconsider!

@Happy
Good idea! And don’t forget to explain the signal issue again, I’m sure they’ll understand it wasn’t intentional.

I think it’s also a good idea to ask for a hearing. If SFMTA offers one, you could explain everything in person. Plus, it might help your case to show that you tried to solve it right away.

Another option might be to pay the fine first before the deadline just to avoid extra fees, but keep the payment records. If your appeal works, you might get a refund.

Marley said:
Another option might be to pay the fine first before the deadline just to avoid extra fees, but keep the payment records. If your appeal works, you might get a refund.

Does paying the fine mean admitting guilt, though? I’m a little confused about that part.

@Finley
Nah, paying the fine doesn’t mean you admit guilt. It’s just to avoid extra penalties while your appeal goes through. If you win the appeal, SFMTA could refund the payment.

If the appeal doesn’t work out, the violation record will stay, but it’s just a civil infraction, not a criminal one. So it shouldn’t mess with background checks or your immigration status or citizenship. That should help, right?