For the record, speeding past the designated limit is potentially dangerous and should be avoided. However, there are some instances with highway driving where you might occasionally find yourself exceeding that speed limit. The police know this and that is why they set up “speed traps” to snag speeders and hand out tickets. If you want to avoid getting hit with those heft fines and points on your license, then you just have to put these tips into action:
Don’t Speed
This is the no-brainer. But when driving think the fact that 30% of all fatal crashes are the result of speeding. Those speed limit signs are there for a reason. Yes, you can often not even be aware of your speed. That is why you want to pay attention and anytime you see a sign, check your speed.
Install a Radar Detector
A radar detector will let you know if you’re headed into one of those speed traps. The problem is that there are many places in the country where radar detectors are illegal. And if you are speeding so much that you need one of these gadgets, then it might be time to review your driving habits
Plan Out Each Trip
Often when we speed it is because we’re running late. That actually isn’t an excuse. The only time that might work is if you’re a medical professional that has been called into duty but even then it is a stretch. That is why you want to plan out your trip so that you have plenty of time to get where you’re going without speeding. Obviously, you can’t always predict traffic but you can follow traffic alerts.
Watch Out for Your Speed Triggers
Yes, we all have speed triggers. It might be a song on the radio or billboard on the highway. Whatever makes you feel the “need for speed” you need to recognize that and find ways to avoid those triggers.
Be Respectful
If you are pulled over for speeding, then it’s good chance you were actually speeding. This is not the time to challenge the authorities or try to explain away the reason. You should never be angry even if this stop is going to make you even more late. Being respectful could let you get off with just a warning.
Ask for Permission
When an officer approaches your car, you are right to be nervous and anxious. Guess what? So are the officers. They have no idea what they are walking up to. That is why you want to take things slow. No sudden movements. If they ask for any kind of documentation, then ask permission to reach for it whether it is in a wallet, purse or glove box.
Don’t Admit to Speeding
Even though you won’t be under arrest, anything you say can be used against you. That includes admitting to speeding. The officer will always ask, “Do you know you were speeding?” You answer should always be, “I had no idea.” You can later plead guilty in court if necessary. This also means you shouldn’t apologize. That is an admission of guilt.
Engage in Small Talk
Police officers are human. They could be starting their day or just ending it. They could also be from your community. There is nothing wrong with engaging in small talk when appropriate. By talking, you are diffusing the situation and that will put them at ease.
Make Sure Your Car is Law-Abiding
Finally, make sure your car is law-abiding. That means any tinted windows or aftermarket add-ons. Those might look cool but could actually be against the law. That is enough of a reason to be pulled over even if you aren’t speeding. Before anything is installed, check the local regulations. A “cool look” isn’t worth the hassle of a ticket.
