Caught Speeding in Michigan? Smile, Nod, and Admit It
There are red and blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror. Even for Michigan's most law-abiding citizens, getting pulled over by police is instantly nerve-wracking. It can be especially worrisome when YOU KNOW YOU WERE SPEEDING. Is there a magic phrase you can say to the officer that will instantly erase the entire experience? Probably not, but the way you behave can certainly increase the odds of making an already uncomfortable situation infinitely better or monumentally worse. It's really up to you.
Related: Is This the Fastest Speeding Ticket in Michigan History?
While you sit in your vehicle, anxiously checking the rearview mirror to see when the officer is approaching and evaluating your life decisions, here's something to remember: Honesty is the best policy and your best chance at a reduced ticket.
How to Increase Your Odds of Getting a Reduced Speeding Ticket in Michigan
As with everything in life, your attitude and behavior have a tremendous influence on how this traffic stop will go. I asked Lieutenant Rene Gonzalez of the Michigan State Police (MSP) how to best act during a speeding traffic stop, and it all boils down to how you interact.
Lt. Gonzalez elaborated more by saying, "Just be polite." Police officers are public servants who serve and protect our communities by enforcing laws, and therefore, they enforce posted speed limits. If you're pulled over, ask yourself: "Was I speeding?"
Honesty is Always the Best Police, Especially During Michigan Traffic Stops
If you know you were driving over the limit (and let's face it, 90% of the time, we know when we are), own up to it! If you think (or know) you were going 55 in a 35-mile-per-hour zone, say that, followed by why. "Sorry officer, I didn't notice the change in limit" or "I'm running late for..." Whatever your HONEST reason is, share it. Chances are that officer's been there before and can relate.
Put Yourself in a Michigan Police Officer's Shoes
Imagine it's your job to approach potentially deadly situations every single day. That's what Michigan law enforcement experiences with each traffic stop. While we, as citizens, sit and sweat, wondering how expensive the ticket is going to be, they wonder if we're crazed lunatics with a weapon and a vendetta.
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If you're nervous about being pulled over, say so and explain why. It will help to put both you and the officer at ease. Keep your hands on the wheel as they approach the vehicle so they know you're not reaching for a weapon. If your registration is in the glovebox or in your purse, wait until they ask for it, tell them where it is, and ask if you can reach for it.
Don't Argue Your Case During a Traffic Stop
If you feel that you were pulled over in error and that you are completely innocent of any wrongdoing, don't behave any differently. Law enforcement officers aren't judges, so arguing your case to them on the shoulder of a highway isn't going to accomplish anything.
Show them the same courtesy you'd want and remember that if you're going to challenge this ticket in court, you're going to have to see this person again.
The #1, Fool Proof, Most Effective Way to Avoid a Speeding Ticket in Michigan
I asked Lt. Gonzalez if there was a surefire way to avoid getting a ticket, to which he replied instantly with: "Don't speed." He went on to say that while going over the posted limit might save you a couple of minutes, it ultimately won't save you in the long run.
Related: The Top 10 Crimes That Will Get You Arrested in Michigan
Speed kills, speeding tickets can be expensive, and points on your license can add up quickly. Too many points and you've lost your driving privileges.
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