5 Things You Need To Do When You're Being Pulled Over For Speeding

You know you're busted: the flashing lights in your rearview mirror, the siren, the racing heart--now what? One thing you can be almost completely sure of: It's not Erik Estrada. 

From the minute you're being pursued by a police officer, your behaviour is being monitored and will impact whether or not you get a ticket and even the severity of penalty. Here are five tips for what to do when you've been pulled over for speeding.

1. Pull over: As soon as you see the cruiser's lights flashing and hear the siren, turn on your right turn signal and begin making your move to the side of the road as quickly and safely as possible. It's also important right off the bat that you're showing cooperation. Pulling over as quickly as possible also allows you to get a sense of where you are, the surrounding conditions, and other factors that may help you if you decide to contest the ticket.

2. Turn off engine: Once you're safely pulled over, turn off the engine, roll down your window, keep your hands on the steering wheel--where the officer can see them--and wait. If it's dark, turn on the interior lights of your vehicle to enhance your and the officer's vision. Don't make any sudden movements. Do not stare at the officer through your rear-view mirror--this can be perceived as confrontational. Take a deep breath and try to relax your body and mind.

3. Be courteous: Police are people too: they have feelings, and are simply doing a job at which they may be having a bad day or night. Appear as non-threatening as possible, and even ask how the officer is doing. Respect and understand that you have committed an offence, and lose the attitude. If you are confrontational, the likelihood of getting a ticket will increase; act with respect and courtesy, and there exists a chance that you'll either be let off the hook, or receive a reduced fine. 

4. Don't make sudden moves: Many crimes are uncovered during a routine pull over for speeding, so it's best to not make any sudden moves knowing that the officer is in a vulnerable position approaching your vehicle. Keep your hands where the officer can see them (on the steering wheel is best); and if you need to reach into your right hip pocket for your wallet, simply ask the officer if you may do so--the same goes for needing to reach into the glove box for registration, etc. 

5. Don't admit to guilt: There are some sources that warn against admitting to speeding, because the officer will simply write you up, and add your admittance to his/her notes on the ticket. This will cause complications if you attempt to appeal it in court, for you've already admitted to guilt. However, if the officer is about to write you up, there is opportunity to ask the officer politely if you may be issued a warning instead of a ticket, especially if you weren't driving aggressively, but simply let the peddle drop. Do not make any admittance, but simply ask for the warning. Don't be surprised, however, if you get a ticket anyway.