So you’ve just seen the flashing lights behind you and realize you’re being pulled over. Don’t panic! Here’s some advice: 1. First, roll down all your windows and turn off the car. Take the keys out of the ignition and put them somewhere where the officer can see them, like on the dash board or even on top of the car. If it’s dark, turn the lights on inside your car. If you’re wearing a hood/hat/sunglasses, take them off. Put your hands on the wheel and wait for the officer to approach your vehicle. If you have passengers, make sure they stay quiet and keep their hands out in the open, also. Do not EVER get out of the car unless asked by the officer. 2. When the officer approaches your vehicle, be nice and do exactly what he/she says. Only speak when spoken to, and keep your answers brief. Now is NOT the time to start trying to explain yourself. You can, however, attempt to let the officer know you’re a real person through your answers. If the officer asks where you’re coming from, let them know if it was work or school. It will indicate that you are a hard-working, normal person. Example: “I just got out of class. I’m a student at ________ trying to make a life for me and my new wife” or “I just got off a bad day at work. I work at _______ because it pays the bills, but I’m trying to find a new job because I need more money.” Don’t tell a sob story, but you can try and make the officer see you as a real person through these types of short answers. Once the officer asks for your license and registration, tell him/her where it is (ex: purse, glove box, etc.) and politely ask if you may reach over to get it. Don’t make any sudden movements. 3. Once the officer has gotten your basic information, politely ask if you may speak to him/her about your violation. Cops like to have their ego stroked, so start by letting the officer know that you completely respect law enforcement and that you feel bad for any wrongful act you may have mistakenly done. Admit guilt without admitting guilt. Example: “I feel that I was driving at a safe/controlled speed for the existing conditions, but I admit I was not diligently checking my speedometer like I maybe could have. I respect the need for a speed limit and would never want to endanger myself or others. I’m so sorry and I will make sure to double-check my speed next time.” Act sincerely apologetic, not sarcastic. Let the officer know that you do not intend to be a repeat offender. If you have a legitimate excuse, now is the time to slowly and professionally explain. Ex: “I did not mean to drive out of lane, but there was debris in the road and I judged my action in swerving was the safest and seemingly only option at the time.” 4. If the officer still decides to write you a ticket, politely ask him/her a few questions. Examples: Where were you when you clocked my speed/saw me change lanes/saw me using a cell phone? Were you using a radar or lidar device, and if so, when was the last time it was calibrated? Don’t ask too many, but ask just enough so that you fully understand the cop’s point of view in pulling you over. 5. Leave the scene politely and non-memorably. Once the officer has written the ticket, you aren’t going to convince him at that point to tear it up. Make sure to sign the ticket when you are asked. You are not admitting guilt, and you can be arrested for refusing to sign. Thank the officer for his time, signal, and safely drive away once the officer indicates you can leave. Do not indicate to the officer that you intend to fight the ticket. 6. Next, email TrafficTicketHelp@yahoo and let us know you’ve gotten a ticket so we can get started trying to get you out of it!!!
Posted on: Tue, 30 Jul 2013 02:16:46 +0000
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