Being pulled over for speeding can be stressful, especially if you don’t believe you were breaking the law. What should you say to the officer? Are you going to be arrested, and will you need a speeding ticket attorney? Knowing what to do and what actions to avoid can prevent the situation from escalating and minimize the consequences of your traffic stop.

Do:

Be polite.

Even if you believe the officer is wrong, there is no advantage to engaging in a heated argument. Remember to be polite, avoid getting angry, and refrain from raising your voice. If you weren’t going over the limit or have grounds to believe you shouldn’t have been stopped, a skilled speeding ticket attorney will challenge the violation in court.

Refuse to answer questions.

During the stop, the police officer may ask questions that appear to be conversational. However, these queries are almost always intended to establish probable cause to search your vehicle. Politely refuse to answer; no matter what the officer says, you’re not obligated to respond.

Don’t:

Get out of the vehicle.

Exiting the vehicle without being specifically asked by the officer can be interpreted as a sign of aggression. As soon as you’re pulled over, turn on the overhead light, roll down the window, and stay in the car unless the officer asks you to step out.

Consent to a search.

If the officer is asking permission, they don’t have probable cause to search your vehicle. There is no legal upside to consenting to one, so politely refuse and ask whether you’re free to go.

Traffic citations can result in higher insurance premiums, fines, and points off your license, so you need a speeding ticket attorney with an established track record of success. As a fixture in the local community, Bates Law Firm PLLC has provided drivers throughout Anson, Richmond, Stanly, and Union Counties, NC, with the most aggressive representation and best legal services possible. Follow their Facebook for more legal insight, and call (704) 694-0195 or visit their website to schedule a consultation with an accomplished speeding ticket attorney.