(1) For any motor vehicle citation involving a violation of this chapter where the motor vehicle is registered to a permit holder, there shall be a prima facie presumption that the permit holder was the person who operated the motor vehicle in violation of these rules. Such responsibility does not afford a defense to another person who violated these rules.

(2) For any motor vehicle citation involving a violation of this chapter where the motor vehicle is not registered to a permit holder, there shall be a prima facie presumption that the registered owner of the motor vehicle was the person who operated the motor vehicle in violation of these rules. Such responsibility does not afford a defense to another person who violated these rules.

(3) This section shall not apply to university or college operated motor vehicles. The operator of a university owned or a college owned motor vehicle is personally liable for any citation issued to the motor vehicle.

(4) A third party other than the permit holder or registered owner can assume responsibility for a citation by either paying the citation within twenty calendar days of the date of the citation or submitting a petition where the third party agrees to take responsibility.

(5) When mitigating circumstances exist, authorized commuter services personnel may reduce or dismiss fines.