Thursday, February 9, 2012

Tips on Avoiding a Speeding Ticket

You’re driving along New York State Thruway and out of your rear view mirror you see the unmistakeable lights of a NY State Trooper.  As the lights follow you, there is no doubt that you are about to be given a New York speeding ticket.  There are many different opinions on how to avoid getting a speeding ticket in New York.  Clearly every ticket lawyer agrees that the easiest way to avoid getting a speeding ticket is not to speed.  However, its not always that simple. 

In the event that you are given a ticket, it is important to you remember a few key things to help mitigate the situation and perhaps avoid getting a speeding ticket.


Be Polite

The old saying is true, "some times you get more with sugar than you do with salt."  Remember, when an officer pulls you over, they have no idea if you will over react and make a simple ticket into a full blown arrest.  Although officers are trained in handling routine traffic stops, quite often, a traffic stop puts an officer on high alert for criminal activity.  As such, it is just as much of a stressful situation for you as it is for them.


Be Careful in What You Say


Many officers will begin a traffic stop with "Do you know why I pulled you over."  While I cannot speak for each officer's individual motive for asking this question, there are many officers that ask this question to elicit a confession.  If you voluntarily state, "I was speeding 26 mph over the limit," you just confessed to the infraction.  This can be used against you later in court.  Once you give a confession, it is very difficult to beat your case at trial.


Be Wary of Your Surroundings

Many officers have routine places they issue tickets.  Some officers cleverly place their patrol cars in hidden places such as a bend in the road or behind cover.  While you should always be vigalent of your surroundings, you should always look out for possible speed traps.



Comments By Your Westchester Ticket Defense Lawyer:  f you have been issued a ticket in either Westchester, Rockland, or Dutchess Counties in New York, give us a call to see how we can help.  Call us at 914-723-7900.