If you get a warning, you won't have to pay the ticket.
If you are pulled over by a police officer, your first instinct is likely to be panic.Remaining calm can help you in the long run.If your traffic stop is unusual, you may have a chance at getting a warning instead of a ticket, as you want to be polite.
Step 1: You should turn on your signal.
When you see the lights behind you, turn on your turn signal.There is a cop behind you and you are looking for a place to pull over.
Step 2: Move quickly to the side of the road.
Make sure to pull over at the first place you can see.Delaying will send a bad message to the officer as you want to do it safely.If you can give the officer enough space on the driver's side, she can walk up that side without being in traffic.
Step 3: Don't give the officer reason to put up a guard.
Don't make her think the situation is riskier than it is.The cop is thinking about the risks when she pulls someone over.Don't make sudden movements or look like you're reaching for something.
Step 4: It's important to set up your car.
Roll your window down.Wait for the cop to approach and shut off your car.Don't pull out your driver's license until you're asked to do so.The officer can see what's going on inside the car if the inside light is turned on.
Step 5: You have to keep your hands in sight.
The cop wants to make sure you don't reach for a weapon.She should be able to see your hands at all times.The steering wheel is a good place to keep your hands off it.
Step 6: You shouldn't step out of your car.
That makes the situation worse.The cop might think you're trying to hurt her.Wait inside the car.
Step 7: You can keep your emotions under control.
You're likely to say something you regret if you get riled up.You're not likely to get a warning if you yell or curse at the officer.When you are pulled over, take a deep breath and calm yourself down.It isn't the end of the world.
Step 8: Be nice when the officer approaches.
Even with traffic stops, politeness goes a long way.Don't be mean to the officer during the whole interaction.Say hello, how are you doing today?A smile can be helpful.You don't want to be hostile.You don't want to say why you stopped me.Without any other kind of greeting
Step 9: Follow the directions.
You will be asked for your license and registration by the officer.The officer could ask you to step out of the car.Follow the directions.
Step 10: I don't know what to say.
If the officer asks if you know why you were pulled over, it's best to say you don't know.The officer may pull you over for something completely different than you think, so you don't want to admit to something else.Since the officer will probably make a note of it, if you try to fight the ticket later, it may work against you.
Step 11: Explain the circumstances.
If you have a good reason for breaking the law, you can explain it.It may not help your case, but it might convince some officers.It's a good excuse for speeding if you're late picking your child up from school.
Step 12: If you want a warning, ask.
Asking the officer if you can have a warning is the simplest way to get one.If you want to follow the law, you should apologize for what you did.Time the moment correctly.You may have missed out if you waited until the officer started writing.She may be writing a ticket instead of a warning if you ask before she starts.
Step 13: Wait while you can.
The officer will return your information to her car.Make sure you don't make any sudden movements while she's doing that.Wait and keep your hands on the wheel.The officer will be nervous if you look like you are reaching for something.
Step 14: Accept the decision.
Accept whatever the officer decides.Thank the officer as she is doing her job.If you get out of control, you could be arrested.
Step 15: You have the option to appeal.
You can always appeal the ticket if you feel you were unfairly treated.Information on how to appeal the decision is listed on the back of the ticket.