🚓 Traffic Stops and Your Rights: What You Can (and Shouldn’t) Say to Police

If you’ve ever been pulled over by law enforcement in New York—whether in the Five Towns, on the Southern State, or somewhere upstate—you probably experienced that sinking feeling in your gut. Flashing lights, a quick glance at your speedometer, and a million questions rushing through your mind. One of the most common: What do I say now?

As a traffic ticket attorney who's been helping New Yorkers since 1991, I’ve seen countless cases turn based on what a driver said—or didn’t say—during a traffic stop. So let’s get something straight: You have rights. But you also need to know how to use them.

🎙️ What You Are Not Required to Say

Let’s start here:
In New York, when you’re pulled over, you are required to provide:

• Your driver’s license

• Your vehicle registration

• Your proof of insurance

But you are not required to:

• Admit guilt

• Explain why you were allegedly speeding

• Answer questions like “Do you know why I pulled you over?”

In fact, one of the best things you can say is:
“I prefer not to answer any questions without a lawyer.”
Polite. Calm. Respectful. But firm.

🧠 Common Mistakes That Hurt Your Case

Let’s be honest—nerves take over. People talk too much. And sometimes they think honesty will win the officer’s sympathy.

But here’s what I see too often in court:

❌ “Yes, I was going a little fast. I’m sorry.”

Translation: You just admitted guilt.

❌ “I didn’t see the sign.”

Nice try. But ignorance of the law isn’t a defense—and the officer now knows you weren’t paying attention.

❌ “I’m just trying to get home quickly.”

Speeding to get home, to the bathroom or late for an appointment = still speeding. A judge won’t be moved.

Bottom line: Anything you say can and will be used against you—not just in criminal court, but also in traffic court, where the burden is lower.

🤐 What Should You Say?

Sometimes less is more. Here’s a respectful script you can follow:

Officer: “Do you know why I pulled you over?”
You: “No, officer.” (Don’t guess. Let them explain.)

Officer: “You were going 55 in a 30.”
You: “I understand.” (Not “I’m sorry,” not “But I was just…”—just acknowledge without admitting.)

Officer: “Is there any reason for your speed?”
You: “I’d prefer not to answer any questions.” (This is your right.)

You can still be respectful, calm, and cooperative while protecting yourself legally.

🚨 Know Your Rights—But Don’t Escalate

You have the right to:

• Remain silent

• Refuse to consent to a search

• Record the interaction (if safe and legal in the situation)

• Ask if you're free to leave

But asserting your rights doesn’t mean arguing at the roadside.
Do not raise your voice. Do not challenge the officer.
The side of the road is not the place to try your case.

⚖️ What Happens Next?

If you get a ticket, that’s not the end of the story—it’s just the beginning. What you say (or don’t say) at the stop can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.

Before you plead guilty or pay that fine, talk to a traffic lawyer who knows how to fight back.

🧑‍⚖️ How I Can Help

Since 1991, I’ve been representing drivers across Long Island and NYC—from minor tickets to major violations. I understand how police reports are written, how to navigate court procedures, and how to protect your record and your license.

If you've been pulled over and want to fight your ticket, call me today.

💬 Final Tip:

Stay calm. Be polite. Don’t volunteer. Then call your lawyer.

Michael E. Beer, Esq.
Traffic Ticket Defense Lawyer – Nassau, Queens, NYC, and beyond
📍 www.5TownsTraffic.com
📞 Call or email me directly – I return messages fast.