Nobody wants or likes to get a moving violation, but sometimes things happen and you are pulled over by an officer of the law or the Highway Patrol. You may not be able to prevent the ticket, but there are some things you can do to put you and the officer at ease.
If you see the red and blue flashing lights in your rear-view mirror, pull over safely to the side of the road, or take the next available freeway exit. You are most vulnerable at this time because you are nervous or upset, so pay attention to the traffic around you to avoid getting into an accident.
As you pull over to the side of the road, the officer will stop the patrol car behind you and check your license plate number with the on-board computer to see if there are any problems associated with the vehicle. After the patrol-person comes to your window, roll it down and keep both hands visible to show the officer you have nothing to hide.
Follow InstructionsTry to put yourself at ease and speak calmly and politely to the officer as you would with anyone else. You’ll be asked to show your license and may be asked some questions.
The officer is just following routine procedures and must do this with everyone, so don’t take it personally. If you are belligerent, argumentative, or stubborn, it won’t help the situation at all. Stay calm and speak normally.
An Officer’s DiscretionMany people don’t know that officers have the choice to either give out a ticket or just issue a warning. Giving a driver a pass doesn’t happen too often, but your attitude and demeanor is important in making an uncomfortable situation a little more tolerable by being calm and polite. You may even get off with a warning if the officer sees that you are cooperative.
Teach Your TeensNew drivers are especially susceptible to getting a moving violation because they are getting used to the process of driving and may become distracted.
It is a good idea to give your teen these pointers before they receive their first moving violation or traffic ticket to prepare them on how to react. If they are given prior warning and they know that you won’t be upset if they get their first ticket, they’ll be prone to be more calm when it happens.
Source:
State Farm