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Old 12-19-2005, 06:43 PM
jwalsh22 jwalsh22 is offline
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Join Date: May 2005
Location: X5world
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Okay, I've had some experience with the cops and speeding since I've been in my X. Sorry in advance for the long post.

First, you could state that you were moving with the flow of traffic (if you really were) and felt it unsafe to go slower. It sounds too easy when you say it so simply. Fancy it up a bit. You've got to remember though, that above all, accident avoidence seems to be the most important aspect of traffic law. If you can convince the judge that not traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you could have added to the already present congestion and thus increased the chance of an accident you might be able to work something out. I've only done this twice, once when I was pulled over, and once in court. It worked both times, but I might have been lucky.

Second, you could basically admit that you were speeding, but contest the speed, which would probably reduce your fine and the points right? Like someone said earlier, ask about the radar gun calibration and most importantly, ask about the band of radar. Educate yourself about the different bands and errors that occur on a consistant basis that might mean the difference between a correct reading and a false one. Perhaps you can take it from this angle.

Third, pay the ticket. You were speeding after all, but it is definately not right to pay for 19 over when you knew you were going 12 over. I'm not sure how the punishment structure works where you are, but it seems like 12 over should be down a level.

Now, perhaps some tips for the next time you get pulled over. I've used these a couple times as well, and not only do they serve as respectful ice-breakers when talking to cops, but can mean the difference between driving off without a signed paper, and having this lead weight on your driving record. I'm going into Anthropology, and the most important thing I've found is starting conversation. Get good at it, cops are tough. Never, of course, admit fault if there is ANY hope you can get out of it. If it's like 5 or even 8 over (it was really pushing it though) ask the cop to help you figure out your malfunctioning speedometer. Ask him to maybe follow you and flash his lights when you get to a certain speed or something. Explain that you have the sport package, and now that you think of it, the larger wheel diameter may slightly skew readings on the speedometer (even though this would actually make it seem like we were going faster, who cares). 9 times out of 10 they'll come back to the car with your license and tell you to get that looked at. If they take you up on your offer, well, crap, figure something out from there. Having a clean record with this is critical.

If you're not going to use your innocent eyes, and admit some guilt, ask what type of radar was used to clock you. Keep this in mind when you contest your ticket. Simple things like the fact that Laser radar CANNOT be used to provide reliable readings if not completely still (on a tripod or something) can prove to your advantage. Above all, be nice. Nothing gets better when anyone mouths off to a cop. No matter how upset you are, these are people who deserve respect, even if you hate them.
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