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I used to be a Chicago Police Officer. I did that for 15 years and I worked a radar unit for 3 of those years on the Chicago expressway system and Lake Shore Drive. There are ways.
Be honest. I know that sometimes the cop is wrong and you didn't do it. But, that is a small percentage and most officers learn early not to go after anyone unless they are sure they have the right guy. My rule was, if I wasn't absolutely positive that you were speeding, I didn't put my car in gear. I could wait for the next one. With that said, The best way is to fess up and hope the copper is feeling generous. For every excuse you have, they have heard it a hundred times before. From, "I am a doctor and I am going to do emergency surgery" (we would simply offer to escort the doctor to the hospital using our lights and siren...which caused an immediate confession) and "My speedometer must be broken" ( we'd tell the guy that that meant 2 tickets instead of one).

I have been offered money, sex, hot stock tips and autographs from celebrities and running backs. Sometimes that works but you could be adding a charge of bribery to your troubles. Don't do it.
Be courteous, call the officer "Sir" or Ma'am", don't put a phoney smile on your face, tell him you are sorry for making him chase you and don't pull out any guns or knives (just kidding).
I know that some coppers are a real pain in the butt. You got a ticket from him but I used to have to sit next to those clods for 8 hours! Like any other job some guys are good and some aren't. Anyway, even if he's a total jerk try to remember one thing...If your kid is trapped in a burning building that jerk will probably risk being burned to death trying to get the kid out.

Learn more about this author, James Ruhnke.
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