by Mark Brazel

Created on: January 08, 2009

As a fifteen year law enforcement veteran, I can offer up a few more ways to get out of a speeding ticket. Why, you ask, would a police officer be willing to provide information that could work against his colleagues in a court of law? For me, there is one reason, justice. I am a firm believer in the justice system and as a sworn police officer, it is my duty to follow procedures, use my training, and be professional. If I make a mistake, there is no one to blame but myself. If you win your case in a court of law because of an error on my part, that's justice, and I will learn from it.

First of all, many police officers will not pull you over unless you are going a specific speed over the speed limit. For instance, some officers in one municipality in my jurisdiction allow up to nine miles an hour over the speed limit. Ten over will get you stopped, and twelve over is a guaranteed citation. Officers have the liberty of using their own discretion when stopping an individual for speeding. In today's court system, many are apprehensive to stop someone for speeding only a few miles an hour over the speed limit simply because it is harder to prove in a court of law. A person fighting a citation in court for speeding thirty miles an hour over the limit is far easier to prove (for the officer) than nine miles an hour over. With that said, it is still important that we obey the limits posted and not expect the jurisdiction where we may be traveling to follow these guidelines. Many times they are set by each individual officer unless policy states otherwise.

Here are the correct steps to follow when stopped for speeding:

-First of all, always note your location and look for speed limit signs in the area. In Illinois, if the roads are not posted, it is thirty miles per hour on city roads, and fifty-five miles per hour on rural roads. Some states vary so check your local laws.

-Pull to the side of the road in the safest, nearest spot possible. This ensures that your position will be safe from other traffic and the officer will appreciate your effort as well, the first step to being on your way with a written warning.

-Do not step out of the vehicle! This will seal your fate.

-Avoid excessive movement inside the car as you are pulling over and as the officer approaches. Too many police officers fall victim to gunshots from thugs who have no regard for the service they provide. Keep your hands where the officer can see them and don't reach for the glove box until he asks you

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