It has probably happened to you: getting a traffic ticket. It’s not fun. Getting pulled over by a police officer is a stressful situation on its own. It might be made worse for some by the events of that day, something didn’t go well, or maybe you’re just having a bad day.
Sometimes there’s a reason why someone might get mad at a police officer, generally it’s because no one wants a traffic ticket. However, reacting aggressively or negatively with a police officer is not going to help. That’s why this blog is on basic etiquette when speaking to police officers.
- Stay calm, be polite
Remember, police officers are just doing their job. Listen to what he/she says, don’t argue, don’t be rude.
- Don’t try to talk your way out of the ticket.
This is not the time or place to fight your ticket. Take your ticket and keep it, as it provides important information for fighting your ticket.
- Don’t try to argue with the officer
This is just a bad idea. Don’t give an officer reasons to keep you there longer, or to make the charge worse for you. Just accept the ticket and be on your way.
- Be honest
Remember that anything you say can be used against you. Don’t lie or make up excuses or say you were only going 10km over. Just answer the officer’s questions honestly.
These tips might seem like common sense, but when faced with the stress of getting a ticket and the possible consequences, people can act out or get defensive and aggressive. The best thing to do is to be on your way after you receive your ticket, and call a paralegal to help you fight your ticket.
Every situation is different. Remember you have a right to fight your ticket. At Bulwark Legal Services we provide free consultations. You can go to our website and send us a copy of your ticket. We will help you decide the right course of action to take.
