First, let’s get one thing straight – VERC Car Rentals doesn’t condone speeding. Not only is unsafe, but it’s also against the law. As such, we always advise our rent a car in New England customers to drive the speed limit. What’s more, we aren’t lawyers here at VERC – as such, this isn’t legal advice. The following are some generalized discussions of life experiences, and any legal statements are simply shared to provide our rent a car in New England travelers with options.
However, if ever you glance up to find flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror, keep this post in mind. A little knowledge and sage advice could save you from a costly ticket and a stain on your driving record.
Taking a Look at Speeding Tickets
More than 34 million people in the U.S. receive speeding tickets every year, this according to the National Motorists Association. But, just because you’re issued a ticket doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be required to pay it. According to Bonnie Sesolak, the development director at the NMA, “you need not assume that you’re automatically guilty” just because you’ve been ticketed. A good defense is always your best offense, so be smart. Here are some tips for contesting your charge.
1) Slow Down
The best way to ensure you’re never pulled over for speeding is simple: don’t speed. Posted speed limits aren’t just recommendations. These advised speeds are calculated based on the condition of the road, the amount of traffic that’s in the area and any permanent environmental conditions.
2) Remember Your Manners
If your lead foot decides to make an appearance during your rent a car in New England vacation, don’t make matters worse by being rude. The fastest way to beat a ticket is to make a good impression on the police officer who pulls you over. Arguing with the on duty officer will get you nowhere, so be polite and courteous. Every officer has discretion – discretion to write or not write you a ticket. As such, demonstrate that the ticket means a lot to you and that you deeply regret the prospect of getting it.
3) Don’t Admit Any Guilt
Admitting that you were speeding and then begging forgiveness is not going to get you off the hook. In fact, it will likely just get you into more trouble. Officers need to have probable cause in order to write a ticket. Admitting that you were going twice the speed limit will pretty much seal your fate.
4) Ask to See the Radar
Many jurisdictions require that the officer allow you to see the radar. If you ask and the officer says no, don’t push your luck. You can also revisit this refusal in court. You may also wish to ask questions like, “were you moving when you clocked my speed?” or “where were you parked when you registered my speed?” Don’t ask these questions in a combative tone. Simply show that you’re interested in the proceedings.
5) Look for Errors
If you’re issued a ticket, be sure to check for factual errors or omissions. This could include failure to specify a location or date for where and when the offense took place. If you’re serious about having the ticket thrown out, consider filing a request for discovery, normally with the district attorney. This will enable you to pull information that could help you combat your ticket in court. Something as simple as the calibration records for the speed-detection equipment used to issue your ticket could get your charge thrown out.
