We’ve heard the stories: a girl gets pulled over for speeding, turns on the waterworks, and the cop simply ignores that ticket he was reaching for and issues a mild warning instead. Is it true? Can crying really get someone out of a traffic ticket? Chances are that crying your way out of a traffic ticket won’t often work. Depending on the violation, like speeding or reckless driving, a cop has a duty to uphold the law. He or she might feel sorry for you, but he or she won’t break the law because you’re crying. Still, there might be a way out of that ticket if you know what to say. Here are some good (and legitimate) ways of avoiding a traffic ticket.

Don’t cry, but do offer a good excuse if it’s true.

Cops are people, too. They have bad days just like you. Cops don’t become cops because they enjoy punishing regular, average citizens. They believe in justice, which is why they pulled you over in the first place. Did you blow past that Stop sign? Speed through a school zone? They’re trying to keep others safe, and they want to make sure you’re aware of what you did. If you get pulled over, and you honestly don’t know why, tell them. Be sincere. If you were speeding and you had a good reason (your friend’s in the hospital, you’re late for an urgent meeting), let them know. They may let it slide, especially if this is your first offense. Keep in mind, though, that you should never lie to a police officer. They have bad days like the rest of us, but they also don’t appreciate dishonesty like the rest of us.

Plead your case.

If you’re stuck with a rigid officer who won’t hear any excuses, then you might just have to suck it up and take the ticket. Chances are, though, that you’ll be dealing with a reasonable person. In this case, take on an attorney role and plead your case. Explain why you had to speed, why you didn’t see that Stop sign, why you had to make that illegal U-turn. Be rational and respectful. Don’t waste his or her time with petty excuses, and whatever you do, don’t insult him or her or the “government” in general. Cops are doing their jobs; respect them enough to appreciate that. You may find that by promising never to do it again (and mean it), you might get a pass on this particular day. Cops are reasonable. Treat them with respect, and you might be shown the same. When push comes to shove and you already got a speeding offence, you can still defend your case with the help of top-notch speeding solicitors.

Just stay safe.

Getting out of a ticket isn’t easy, and it’s not always successful. If you’ve been disobeying traffic laws on purpose, then no amount of explanation will work. Speeding recklessly through a school zone is dangerous for everyone, and cops need to uphold the law as part of their job. Sometimes, though, you just need a break. You might find that a cop is more willing to give you one if you’re honest, sincere and respectful.