A couple of weeks ago, I wrote an article about the high-tech innovations or Police Technology. While it is good to know that law enforcement has the upper-hand in terms of equipment, there are some good old-fashioned ways to limit your interaction with local officers. I know your DINAN BMW or Kahn Range Rover has the goods and (every now and then) you want to show it. To you, the purveyors of speed, we provide a few quick tips to help avoid speeding tickets.
- DON’T SPEED
Sounds simple enough, yet most people drive at least 5-7 miles over the legal limit. Whether it’s passing a slower car, conquering a changing traffic light or general commuting, simple is always better. Slow down.
- THEY AREN’T CALLED “SPEED TRAPS” FOR NOTHIN’
There are all kinds of setups from moving and stationary radar, LiDAR, known-location speed cameras, hidden cameras, VASCAR stopwatch calculators, and just plain visual observation. Look for them, because they are certainly looking for you.
- KEEP A LOW PROFILE
As an educator, I have heard constantly over the years: “They pulled me over for nothing…” –teenagers…sheesh! After hearing this, I see the same adolescent drivers tearing out of the parking lot, driving with cars packed to capacity or booming with music. In the adult world, I see much of the same. Add in weaving, tailgating and lane blocking. Let’s face it, if you notice it, so will Officer Friendly. A minivan in the slow lane draws less attention than a Maserati. Your driving habits and car of choice have a lot to do with ticketing.
- YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT
It works in your favor sometimes. Present your license and registration and insurance card in quiet bliss. Be pleasant and – if need be- politely say that say you’re asserting your right to stay silent. People who have the most to say get the most tickets.
- PHONE-A-FRIEND
If you have a buddy on the force, ask about where police are and when and shift changes. Most officers will give you friendly advice.
- CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN, FORD EVERY STREAM……FIGHT EVERY TICKET!
Let’s face it; even the most careful driver is susceptible. Fight the ones you feel strongly about. If the speed-limit signs aren’t up to code, you can beat the ticket on a technicality. Also, Check the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Go to: http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/. Please also remember that the judge is not out to get you. The judge is part of the revenue-collection machine. Guilt or innocence is determined by evidence.
- PRESSURE YOUR LEGISLATION
The government measures Federal incentives given to each state by speeding-ticket quotas. Voter pressure has never lost its power. If you haven’t registered, get off your butt and do so!
What are some ways that you’ve avoided/beat a speeding ticket?
