9 Things You Should Never Say If You’re Stopped For Speeding
I’m no stranger to getting pulled over. While it hasn’t happened in a while, I got into some trouble when I was younger. As a result, I know how to effectively communicate with law enforcement. There are just some things you should never say if you’ve been pulled over for speeding. Avoid these nine phrases!
1. “I Was Just Keeping Up with Traffic.”
Everyone tries this excuse, but it won’t get you out of a ticket. Officers have heard it countless times, and it doesn’t justify breaking the speed limit. Just because others are speeding doesn’t mean you won’t be singled out. Traffic laws apply to every driver, not just the fastest one on the road.
2. “I Didn’t See the Speed Limit Sign.”
Not seeing a speed limit sign is not a valid excuse, and the officer won’t be sympathetic. As a driver, it’s your responsibility to be aware of posted speed limits. This statement can make you seem inattentive or reckless. It also suggests that you weren’t paying full attention to the road, which can work against you.
3. “I’m Running Late.”
Being in a hurry doesn’t justify speeding, and officers won’t accept it as a defense. Many drivers are in a rush, but speed limits exist to ensure safety for everyone on the road. This excuse suggests that your urgency is more important than road laws, which could lead to a harsher penalty. If you admit to rushing, you may also raise suspicion about reckless driving.
4. “Can’t You Just Give Me a Warning?”
Asking for a warning can come off as pushy or disrespectful. Officers determine whether to issue a ticket based on the situation, not because a driver requests it. This question can make it seem like you’re trying to manipulate the officer’s decision. It’s better to let the officer make that choice rather than pressuring them.
5. “You Should Be Catching Real Criminals Instead.”
This is one of the worst things you can say to an officer. It comes across as disrespectful and dismissive of their job. Traffic enforcement is a critical part of public safety, and suggesting otherwise will not help your case. Being argumentative may escalate the situation and lead to additional penalties.
6. “I Know My Rights.”
While it’s important to know your rights, stating this phrase aggressively can put the officer on edge. It can make you seem confrontational and may escalate the situation. If you truly believe your rights are being violated, it’s best to remain calm and address it later. Traffic stops aren’t the time for legal debates, and arguing won’t get you out of a ticket.
7. “I Wasn’t Speeding.”
Denying your speed without evidence can make things worse. Officers use radar or pacing techniques to determine speed, so arguing against it is usually pointless. If you truly believe the reading was wrong, you can challenge it in court. Disputing the officer’s assessment on the roadside rarely leads to a positive result.
8. “Do You Know Who I Am?”
Trying to use status or connections to avoid a ticket is never a good idea. It makes you seem arrogant and entitled, which won’t sit well with an officer. Even if you do have influence, bringing it up in this manner can backfire. Officers follow the law, not social status, and they may see this as an attempt to intimidate them.
9. “How About We Work Something Out?”
This phrase can sound like an attempt at bribery, which is illegal. Offering money, favors, or anything in exchange for leniency can result in criminal charges. Even if you don’t mean it that way, officers take such statements seriously. It’s best to keep the interaction professional and avoid anything that could be misinterpreted.
What to Say Instead
Anytime you’ve been pulled over, you should try to stay calm. Be respectful to the officer and cooperate (within reason). Provide them with your license and registration when they ask for it and try to avoid saying anything unnecessary. Don’t make excuses. In the end, you can always contest the ticket in court if you feel it was unfair. The side of the road isn’t the place for a debate. Ultimately, how you choose to act will influence the outcome.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.