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There are so many things to think about when you get behind the wheel of a car. A traffic ticket is an annoying problem that you want to avoid as much as you can. Here are some tips:
Watch Your Speed
It may sound like a no-brainer, but speeding is the easiest way to get a ticket. Be aware of the speed limits in your city. Remember that if you are 500 – 1000 feet from a school, the maximum is 25mph, in some states, it’s as low as 15mph.
Roadworks are also a time when speed limits get reduced. Look for temporary road signs that advise of any current reductions.
Don’t Get Noticed
Who do traffic cops pick on the most? Flashy cars with large exhaust pipes, flames painted down the side, and mag wheels attract attention. A family sedan in neutral colors with no added extras doesn’t get a second look.
Of course, you don’t have to tone it down that much. Make sure all your lights work, your tires are inflated correctly, and that your car isn’t so old that it looks like it’s ready to be stripped and sold for parts. A vehicle that stands out is more likely to get pulled over, and a reason is often found to give out a ticket.
Another way to avoid being seen is to drive in the middle of the pack. With a busy flow of traffic, the police will target the cars at the front and the rear, the rest more often than not, get let through.
Drive Safely
Once again, standard advice, but you’d be surprised at the number of drivers who still tailgate, forget to signal, and frequently and unnecessarily change lanes. This kind of behavior sets you up to one day have an accident.
Keep to the speed limit, change lanes only when necessary, and leave a decent amount of space between the cars in front and behind you.
If You Get Pulled Over
Be cool. Don’t get frustrated or angry. Stay calm, answer any questions they ask, and provide the documents that they ask for. Most importantly, maintain eye-contact.
If you act like you’ve done nothing wrong, and probably you haven’t, you may not get a ticket at all. Yelling, making up excuses, or acting guiltily, will guarantee you a fine, on the spot.
What to Do If You Get a Ticket
If you get a ticket, don’t pay it straight away, talk to a professional first. For example, the team at flcrimedefense.com advises that if you receive one for a red light, you’re not automatically guilty.
Mistakes happen, equipment is faulty, forms get filled out incorrectly. There are many reasons why you might not have to pay for the ticket. Ask questions, get advice, and see what your options are.
It’s Not Rocket Science
Avoiding getting a traffic ticket is easy. Be aware of the speed limit; don’t draw attention to yourself by having a flashy car, and drive as if you blend in with the rest.
On the disappointing occasion that you do get a ticket, investigate first if there’s a reason that you don’t have to pay it. Good luck and happy driving.