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warwickaa

On 24 December 2011 the Police issued me an Infringement Notice for "Failed to comply yellow arrow traffic signal (vehicles)". On 7 January I wrote to the Police saying (1) that there was no arrow in my direction of travel, but acknowledging that there was a yellow light; and (2) that, in my view, I was so close to the intersection when the light turned yellow that it was safer to continue (noting also that the light was still yellow after I'd left the intersection).
The Police have ignored my letter (or at least sent no reply), but sent a Reminder Notice which re-words the alleged offence to "Failed to stop at a yellow traffic signal in the form of discs".
I intend to write to the Police again, providing copy of my original letter. In the meantime could you please let me know what my rights are here, in particular:
1) Does the error in the original notice matter? And are the Police allowed to change the offence wording?
2) Are the Police allowed to ignore my letter? Am I entitled to a reply?
3) What should I do if I receive no reply from the Police before the payment due date of 2 March?
Thanks & regards,
Warwick

ABayliss

It seems that you acknowledge that you failed to stop at a yellow light and are contesting the matter on the basis that you were too close to the intersection to stop safely. So, in answer to your questions;
1) Given that you are not arguing that you went through a yellow light of some sort, whether it be arrow or disc and you accept that there were some arrows for some motorists at this intersection, it is difficult to argue the wording.
2) You are entitled to a reply.
3) I'd imagine that you will receive a reply to your letter by 2 March. However, you are entitled to have the matter heard in front of a magistrate, should you so choose.