Recently, an Idaho state trooper issued a speeding ticket to a grandmother on the way to Yellowstone National Park with her very young grandchildren (a four-year old and seven-year-old).
Apparently, the grandmother was traveling 91 MPH in a 75 MPH zone when Mike Nielson, a State Trooper, pulled her over. He noticed that the young children seemed nervous and that the grandmother was shocked as well.
Officer Nielson assured the children that their grandmother was not in serious trouble and gave them “junior troopers” stickers.
The grandmother revealed that the police officer who issued her the speeding ticket was so courteous and sensitive that she decided to write a thank-you note to the state police.
She explained, “We were on vacation and he could have really dampened our mood but he was just great.”
When her grandchildren asked if she was mad at the trooper for getting the ticket, she used that as an opportunity to explain to them the importance of taking responsibility for their actions.
Unfortunately, in New York, the police officers are not always this kind or professional and routine traffic stops are not always so pleasant.
Many times, we receive phone calls from people who were yelled at by New York police officers, had their PBA cards taken away, and even one or two who had their driver’s license thrown back at them.
This is not to say that this is the norm or that most New York police officers act like this. However, it happens more than it should. If it happens to you, remember to remain calm and composed.
Although difficult, never argue with a police officer who pulls you over for speeding in New York. Doing this will likely infuriate him and could even lead to an additional traffic citation––whether it is warranted or not.
Nevertheless, do not apologize to the officer either. Any apology could be considered an admission of wrongdoing which the officer and prosecutor can use that against you in court.
Your best course of action is to be as cordial as possible and let the officer do the talking. If you do end up with a New York speeding ticket, be sure to plead Not Guilty and call an experienced attorney to help you fight the case.
If you received a speeding ticket in NY, contact Rosenblum Law today at 888-434-0406.