What did you do the last time you were pulled over for speeding? Cry? Beg for leniency? Pretend you don’t speak English? I just spent 20 minutes on the phone with a friend who was pulled over for speeding a block from her home. She can cry on cue better than any actress I’ve seen. This “talent” to cry profusely usually gets her out of paying $200 speeding tickets. Guess what? It worked again today.
So what if you can’t release the waterworks as well as my friend? I posed the question to a police officer friend of mine who I rode along with on many occasions during my years as a television news reporter. See how many of these “tactics” you’ve employed in the past:
Ask For a Warning
I must say this one has worked for me on at least two occasions. Let’s face it; it doesn’t hurt to ask. I’m not guaranteeing it will work every time, but it’s worth a shot. Just be careful—an increasing amount of states are recording warnings, so getting one may decrease your chances of wrangling your way out the next time you’re pulled over.
Play Dumb
When the officer asks, “Do you know why I pulled you over?” just say no. The officer might have pulled you over for speeding, but if you answer, “A broken headlight” you’ll likely be cited for both. No need to volunteer information.
Kiss Up
As much as you may be upset about being pulled over, never let your emotions show. Instead, try being extra pleasant and polite. Adding a “sir,” “ma’am” or “officer” onto the end of every sentence, may just get you off the hook.
Don’t Argue
Sarcasm and rudeness will NOT get you out of a ticket. In fact, it could lead to more tickets (“no seatbelt”) or a heftier penalty (“failure to stop”). What’s more, if you are a jerk, you can bet the officer is going to remember you should you opt to go to court to appeal the ticket.
Don’t Pull Any Fast Ones
If a cop is following you with his/her lights flashing and siren blaring—pull over immediately. Curb your desire to gun it to the next county. Rather, turn off your engine, lower your driver’s side window and place your hands on the steering wheel. Don’t be trying to switch seats with a passenger or bend down to grab personal documents until the officer asks for them —- the motion may be mistaken for you hiding something.
What other tactics have you had success with?
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