If the police issue you a speeding ticket, one avenue of defense is to question how they decided how fast you were going. If the rush of air as you zoomed past a state trooper blew the hat off their head or made them spill their coffee, a court would probably agree you were going too quickly. Yet, most speeding tickets rely on more mundane methods which you may be able to challenge.
Before you set about challenging a ticket, you need to be sure of the speed limit for the stretch of road the police stopped you on. It pays to check if it has changed since you last looked or if the area they said you were speeding in has a higher limit than the part they pulled you over on.
Were you going faster than the police?
One way the police use is to drive along the highway at the official limit and watch for anyone who passes them. If this is the reason they give, you have a few options. You can question how accurate their speedometer is, and you can ask how long they tracked you. Sometimes it is necessary to speed up briefly to avoid a crash or hazard in the road.
When did the police last calibrate their measuring equipment?
Speed cameras and speed guns all need regular calibration to ensure accuracy. Demanding to see the records allows you another course of defense if you spot a lack of maintenance.
Is there something wrong with your speedometer?
If your car’s speed gauge has a fault, a judge may feel that is not an excuse to let you off. After all, your car is your responsibility. However, it might persuade them to be lenient.
There are lots of possible ways to defend against a speeding ticket. Understanding all the options is vital to pick one that gives you the best chance of protecting your license.