What do you do when you get pulled over?

[abatt2006]

Do you get off your bike? Do you wait for the officer? Or do you pull out your 9 and start shooting ;)?

[Dodsfall]

Move off the road as far as you safely can, shut off your bike, stay seated, stay relaxed, and keep your hands out of your pockets. You don't want to make the cop any more nervous that he already is. Pulling over vehicles of any kind always has the potential to be dangerous.

The more at ease he feels with you the better. It might not get you out of that ticket, but if you start making him nervous you are pretty much guaranteed one.

[WAR600]

Great advice Dodsfall, never move until the officer asks you to. Most officers say don't even take out your license and registration until asked for it. Just sit patiently.

[PerrySB]

Good advice here. To me attitude is a big part of it. If you have a good attitude it may or may not get you out of a ticket. However an aggressive or obnoxious attitude will just about guarantee you a ticket. Don’t ever make a cop feel threatened; this can cause you a lot of trouble.
We just had an officer shot and killed last night in Yolo County during a traffic stop. That is one of the reasons we are always on edge initially during a traffic stop when you do not know who you are dealing with.
Every cop must take the attitude that he is potentially stopping someone that is a danger to him.

[citb98]

I'll wait on the bike, same as waiting in your car, my insurance and reg are kept under my seat so if he asks for it i'll tell him where there are and then ask to get off.
Same as in a car, I don't reach in the glove box until he asks me, I know he can see in my rear windshield and I don't want him to think I'm pulling anything.
Sorry I used him, i treat female officers the same way, with a little more cleavage haha jk

[RebelWithACause]

I flip my hair and giggle a lot. Cleavage doesn't hurt, either, haha :D

Yeah, I think it depends on the cop, too. My husband and his brother got popped years ago going 81/55. He said he barely had time to get his bike stopped when the cop was on the PA yelling at them to get off their bikes. Then he hustled them into the back of his patrol car, all the while my husbands thinking $h-t, this guy is going to Rodney King us!!! He said once he had them in the back of the car, he was perfectly cool, cracking jokes with them and everything. Told them another story how he'd popped a guy doing 120 on a sports bike he was like, "the guy actually stopped!! Had he not stopped, I would've never caught him!!" So, I think the cop feared they were gonna try to run.

In my car I sit tight like everyone else. When they ask for my stuff, I let them know where it is and that I'm just reaching for it.

[jBryant]

I wish being calm and nice got me out of a ticket or two. In the movies they always ask where you were going in such a hurry and say, I'll let you off with a warning, blah blah blah. Not me, I get license and registration please. Here's your ticket, have a good day!

[RebelWithACause]

I wish being calm and nice got me out of a ticket or two. In the movies they always ask where you were going in such a hurry and say, I'll let you off with a warning, blah blah blah. Not me, I get license and registration please. Here's your ticket, have a good day!

Have you tried complimenting him on his big gun??? Maybe that'll help, haha. :D

[Schneiderman]

I think that if you don't know what to do, don't do anything until you are told to. I got stopped by cops on foot one time, they thought I was dealing drugs. They had their guns on me and everything so I didn't do a damn thing unless they told me to do it, and I made sure that every movement I made was slow and nonthreatening. Once they made sure I had no weapons (or drugs) they were very friendly.

[Dodsfall]

I've heard crying has gotten many a female out of a ticket. I wonder if that would work for males as well...

I can imagine a 350 pound biker, sitting on his bike, belly shaking from sobbing, tears getting in his foot-long beard as the cop walks up. The cop would probably turn on his heel, get back in his cruiser, and be on his way without saying a word.... :)

[Ringo]

I keep my hands where the Officer can see them, I give the Officer my best Forrest Gump wide eye innocent stare and end every sentence with my best Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C. SIR! Yes Sir, No Sir, Right Away Sir, didn’t see the speed limit sign Sir, I’m sorry Sir. Works every time. Yes, I know it’s belittling but it sure as hell beats a fine and increased insurance premium.

[firebos7]

I've heard crying has gotten many a female out of a ticket. I wonder if that would work for males as well...

I can imagine a 350 pound biker, sitting on his bike, belly shaking from sobbing, tears getting in his foot-long beard as the cop walks up. The cop would probably turn on his heel, get back in his cruiser, and be on his way without saying a word.... :)

lol

funniest mental image ever. (although kind of sad too :()

[RebelWithACause]

Anyone out there wanna try that and report back to us what happened????

[DarkHorse9825]

I would say pulling out a 9mm isn't a good start. Sit up, shut up and do what the officer's says.
I have been in law enforcement for a few years and I appreciate the people who are polite to me. You get the odd one that is having a bad day (who doesn't have one every once and a while.) I don't take it personally, and take all things into consideration.
There are some many people out there with weapons, and we (officers) have to take extra caution when dealing with everyone because we don’t know you. I want to go home at the end of my shift just like the next guy.
I guess there are a few of us that come off as a little like pricks, but we are just trying to keep ourselves from getting hurt. Best advice is just to co-operate with the officer. Getting angry and mouthing off won’t help.

[Dodsfall]

Getting angry and mouthing off won’t help.

I've never heard of getting angry and mouthing off doing much more than having the cop kneel on your back as he hooks up the handcuffs.

I don't know what people are thinking by trying to argue their way out of a ticket. Bad tactic.

[Gixxer600]

Well, just keep in mind that the law is the law. What I mean by that is it really doesnt matter how rude you are to the cop, they can only legally do so much. If they are butt holes to me and I KNOW they are giving me a ticket I will treat them the same way. On the other hand if they are nice I am nice ...

Know your rights. Look online and find out what a cop can and cannot do (in regards to searches, arresting you, etc) ... I find that the more they know you know the better off you are. I have gotten out of many tickets with this knowledge and attitude .. example:

I got pulled over one time for speeding but the cop never actually clocked me (radar detector didnt go off and it was reliable). Not sure why but for some reason I pulled the radar detector out of the window as soon as I saw him turn around to come after me. He came up to the window with a MAJOR attitude ... "DO YOU KNOW HOW FAST YOU WERE GOING??" ... and as cocky as I could be (because it pissed me off) I said "Yea ... do you?" and picked the radar detector up out of the passenger seat. He paused, turned red, and said "Too fast!, slow down" and walked off.

I have no doubt that he would have made up some speed and given me a ticket .. but in Georgia they have to get you with radar or laser... they used to be able to "pace" you as well (ride behind you steadily to determine your speed) but I am not sure if they can do that anymore or not.

I don't "hate cops" but it seems like I extrememly dislike most of the ones that have pulled me over. They all seem to have attitudes and play a power card. I can't stand people like that and will do anything I can to throw that back in their face. They are normal people doing a job and since they are in a position of power the power hungry ones will abuse it.

By the way, it seems like State Patrolmen are the nicest overall from my experience and SMALL town cops are the rudest and most abusive. This is not a label for all cops, just my experience. ;-)

[DarkHorse9825]

I don’t claim to speak for all police officers, nor would I. Like any group of people (police, construction, officer workers, bikers ect.) there is always going to be a few dick heads in the crowd. I work with a couple, and I don’t agree with the way they treat citizens. That being said, after they complain about being bitched at during a traffic stop I just tell them to show as much respect and professionalism towards everyone so as not to give anyone an excuse to be dink.
And even if a cyclist/motorist gives you attitude after you were so nice, continue being professional anyway. Nothing worse than being embarrassed while giving evidence because you lost you cool.
Anyway, motorist that have attitude usually will come my way again, and again.
I agree with Gixxer600, know the law. If you don’t, and screw up, you only have yourself to blame.

[Gixxer600]

I agree with Gixxer600, know the law. If you don’t, and screw up, you only have yourself to blame.

True Dat!

[a1c_joker]

I got pulled over once, and after shutting everything off, I went to pull out my ID and reg, then I noticed his buddy got out of the car as well and they both had their hands on their Beretta, not a good situation.

Word to the wise, just sit back and wait for THEIR direction, and don't be a moron like me...;)

~Joker

[crazydave]

Taking off your helmet is a very important step. It is less impersonal if you leave it on. That and the "yes sir" "yes maam" helps. My worst ticket I ever got was 90 in a 55 back when the federal limit was there.

If the motor officer wanted to be a jerk he could of tagged me for the 140 in a 55 that I was doing on a highly modified (at the time) 76 KZ900

[PerrySB]

Hey guys, I’ve been a cop for over thirty years. I hate writing tickets, but I hate seeing people get killed more. I never approach someone with an aggressive demeanor, or at least I try not to. To me it is just business and never personal, no matter what the attitude of the citizen is. I will give more verbal warnings than tickets, and yes the individuals attitude can play a part in it. However I have no tolerance for drunk drivers or road rage because it gets people killed or injured. I think DarkHorse will agree that we are just doing a job and we all want to go home safe. I know some of the younger cops get a little badge heavy but that usually wears off fairly quickly. I hate to say this but if an officer is truly out of line the citizen can always go to internal affairs.
All my traffic stops are recorded so there is never a question as to what I did or did not say to the person I stopped. Not only that if I should later need to go to court I can review the dialog before hand. We are not the enemy, just the guys trying to keep some people from killing themselves or other innocent people.

[DarkHorse9825]

10-4 on that Perry. I'm not a big fan of writing tickets either.
I am a coach officer, so I hope I instill some respect in the young officers that I train. Be nice, and then you can expect to be treated the same way.
I like investigating the criminal matters as apposed to the Highway Traffic matters, but I get paid to enforce the law period.

[pintslayer]

10-4 on that Perry. I'm not a big fan of writing tickets either.
I am a coach officer, so I hope I instill some respect in the young officers that I train. Be nice, and then you can expect to be treated the same way.
I like investigating the criminal matters as apposed to the Highway Traffic matters, but I get paid to enforce the law period.


I act the same way towards cops. They are usually just as nice to you as you are to them, with a few notable exceptions. The cop in the following story was nicer.

I was riding to a hillclimb event one time. The road was one of those incredibly boring central Wisconsin roads that is ruler-straight with soldier pines right up to the shoulder of the road. I had succumbed to road paralysis miles ago and was belting along at 80+. A mini-van was approaching in the opposite lane, and unbeknownst to me, Officer Friendly was right in the van's slipstream. As he passed me, I saw the front end of his Crown Vic take a serious nosedive that could only mean one thing, he was coming for me. I didn't go another quarter mile. I just shut her down and pulled over before the cop had even finished his Starsky and Hutch U-turn. He pulled up behind me and got out with a big grin on his face. He took my license and paperwork and started good-naturedly breaking my balls about cracking the speed limit by a pretty good margin. I was polite and just a little confused, usually the fuzz doesn't grin at you. He asked about my record (clean) and returned to his car for the formalities. He was in such a good mood, I figured he was calling a tow truck to get my bike while he hauled me off to jail.

He came back with a written warning and told me to slow down. No ticket, no jail time, no Rodney King treatment. It was awesome. He must have gone home on his lunch break for a little "afternoon delight" with the old lady and was just feeling too good to ruin my day. I thanked him profusely and got the hell out of there.

[PerrySB]

no jail time, no Rodney King treatment.

I don’t think many states you would go to jail for 80 unless it is in a school zone or something really stupid. The Rodney King comment really always gets to me. We don’t go around beating the hell out of people that have bad attitudes. Now if you pick a fight with us then that is a different story, you are going to get your ass kicked, and you will not win. The last thing any cop wants is to get into a physical confrontation with someone, I have had a few, mainly with drunks. Even then I only used enough force to get the individual under control. I have been punched, kicked, spit on, had things thrown at me, had a knife pulled on me, I told that idiot that you don’t take a knife to a gun fight, been called every filthy name you can think of, and I have never took out my frustration in a violent manner towards any of those people. Most citizens have no idea what cops put up with on a regular basis.

[pintslayer]

That was a joke. It's good to see that Wisconsin isn't the only state that removes an applicant's sense of humor when they join the force.

I know you have it rough, lots of people have it rough. But remember this, you filled out the job application. No state that I'm aware of drafts people into police service. You want sympathy? Look in the dictionary between shi^ and syphilis.

[waltthefanboy]

Where I live most of the hardcore riders don't wear DOT helmets, we just have these brain buckets or the odd WWII German helmet. Cops don't ever write tickets for not wearing our DOTs but this one time, a buddy got pulled over and he was just pissed and cussing and raising hell over it. Just being a real jack ass. Guess what, he got a ticket for speeding, no DOT helmet, and this one takes the cake, his shades weren't approved protective eye wear. I died laughing when I heard that one.

[pintslayer]

Triple whammy!!!

[DarkHorse9825]

Well, I guess this is a motorcycle forum, so I just want to say I am going to be on two wheels like the rest of you and I like to think I am fair to everyone whether they ride in a car or on a motorcycle. All I can say is there are a lot of police in North America (I police in Canada) and you can bet your house that there is going to be a couple of coppers with something up their ass, so no matter what you do you will get a ticket.

Just a side note, my third year on the job I was going to work and was pulled over by the local police (not from my department.) Now I don't make it known I'm a cop off duty, but I do carry my driver's licence with my badge, so it would be quite obvious that I am a officer when I am asked for identification. Well, long story short I was given a ticket anyway, all be it was reduced for me. This goes to show even officers get pinched once and a while. Oh ya, I was doing 110 km/h in and 80 km/h zone (not sure what that translates to mph,) needless to say I got caught doing something wrong and I paid the fine. “Do the crime, do the time.”

[PassioneDucati]

Just try to keep in mind that (most) cops are nice guys like you and I and they don´t really enjoy giving tickets.

If you treat them with respect and cooperate, they might just reward you for making their job a little easier.

Try not to assume that cops are out to get you or to punish you. It´s not a good attitude to have.

[maverick883]

There is a lot of talk about RK, young officers, attitudes and other things here. As a former Officer who could still be one - for your safety and the Officer behind you- LET THEM SEE YOUR HANDS as soon as you put that kickstand down! I don't care how fast you were going, who you are, what your attitude is but if I can't see your hands-my hand will be on my 9mm too! It has nothing to do with what you drive or ride but it is something taught in the academy. It's a sad story when you look at all of the fallen Officers because they got "laid back" during a traffic stop and were more interested in being courteous than safe & got shot.

Once again - kickstand down, bike off, hands where they can be seen until the Officer is beside you! OH, WHEN I AM RIDING; I also have CHL and my gun is in my jacket so my hands are clasped together until the OFFICER knows I have a weapon and tells me exactly what he/she wants me to do.

Fortunately, I have only been stopped twice in 20 years but have stopped more than you can imagine. One biker would not stop and we had to get about 2 feet from his bumper to read his LP. He finally stopped and said he never heard the siren. "RIGHT"

[CaptCrashIdaho]

Be polite.
Be polite.
Be polite.

I can't tell you how important it is for YOU, the rider, to set the tone. The officer is gonna be pretty serious. If you come across as combative or flip then you run the risk of pissing off the LEO.

One of my first motorcycle/LEO memories is when I was pulled over with 2 friends. One had a lot of run-ins with cops and was just being a jerk. The cop took the time to start thinking "do I know this guy?" (turns out he did). By the end of things my friend was cuffed and on the hood and the LEO told us "you can go now, ride safely".

2 of us were polite. 1 wasn't. He got all the attention and love.

"Yes Sir, No Sir" (or Ma'am) works wonders.

[Lefty]

I sit there with a coupon for a free dozen doughnuts and smile. :D

[DarkHorse9825]

lmao

[lmychajluk]

Be polite, non threatening, and honest. I've been pulled over a few times in the last 15 years for a few differenct things, but haven't walked away with anything more than a warning each time. Having a clean driving record goes a long way towards keeping it clean, also, so be careful out there.

I also tend to say "No, Officer. Sure thing, Officer" (I'm respectful, but the guy still works for me, so no 'Sirs' here). Familiarize yourself with your local police agency uniforms and ranks, and if you can figure it out by the stripes on thier sleeve, refer to them by rank ("Yes, Corporal / Sargeant / Lt. / etc..."), or particular agency designation ("Yes, Deputy (Sherrif) / Trooper (State Police) / ect..."), which strokes thier ego a bit. ;)

Another thing to think about - if your state requires it, get a Firearms ID Card / Permit / License / whatever, even if you have no desire to own one. Many times that will come up on thier car computers when they run your plate, and they'll know that you've been through a background check, which will put most of the more experienced officers a little more at ease. But, if you do have a firearm on you, be sure you're transporting it in accordance with your local laws (I think there are other threads dealing with that topic...). If you have a record, disregard this part.

[hotdoggen99]

ive never been pulled over on a bike and of course never plan on it but im shur when it happens, which im shur it will knowing me with my lead foot, id be wondering the same thing

[krch69]

I agree with the other officers, as a former officer I always felt much more comfortable with the engine off, stand down, and the helmet off. Stay on the bike. It is always best to treat the officer as you expect to be treated. At least that is the way I approached all my traffic stops.

[benstead]

I just got pulled over for 81 in 65. Is that really too fast? Does 81mph really warrant a ticket for a 29 year old's first ticket?

I realize that 75 is generally accepted as ok. When I'm in my car I won't even hit the breaks when going past a cop at 75mph. To me, it would be more of a disrespect to the officer thinking I was somehow outsmarting him by slowing down really fast. The thing is, on a gsxr-600 I can go from 75 to 81 by coughing. On a well lit, four lane, empty highway in the middle of the night, I don't think anything under 85mph should warrant a ticket. What a weenie.

[Dodsfall]

I just got pulled over for 81 in 65. Is that really too fast? Does 81mph really warrant a ticket for a 29 year old's first ticket?



Right about 81 is where the tickets will start getting written most of the time. It's probably not too fast to be riding safely on an empty highway, but there is the revenue to collect for the state, that's part of the officer's job.

[lmychajluk]

Does 81mph really warrant a ticket for a 29 year old's first ticket?


You gotta start somewhere... :p

Seriously, I tend to speed, but I haven't had a ticket in 15 years. As long as you're not exceeding the speed of traffic by a huge difference or standing out like a sore thumb, you usually won't get bothered. When you're alone, slow down, and staying in the right lane won't hurt. On a well lit, empty 4-lane highway at night, all a cop will see is that one guy doing 85 in a 65. It's different when there are 300 vehicles / min going by the cop at 85 mph - he's not going to pick out anyone at random, he's going to notice the guy weaving in and out of traffic, the guy with the broken tail-light, the guy with the loud exhaust on his 4-cyl civic, the guy in the red sports car that says 'look at me!', and the one lone bike in sea of 4-wheelers. So, on a bike, it's even more important to keep a low-profile.

[Schneiderman]

I just got pulled over for 81 in 65. Is that really too fast? Does 81mph really warrant a ticket for a 29 year old's first ticket

It probably won't please you to know that I, being 19 years old, got pulled over doing 90 in a 55 and got off with a warning :D

[Goliath616]

9 years old? were you on your Big Wheel? LOL or is that a typo? :p

[Schneiderman]

That would be a typo... though I did get pulled over in my car when I was 15, too.

[maverick883]

I just got pulled over for 81 in 65. Is that really too fast? Does 81mph really warrant a ticket for a 29 year old's first ticket?

I realize that 75 is generally accepted as ok. When I'm in my car I won't even hit the breaks when going past a cop at 75mph. To me, it would be more of a disrespect to the officer thinking I was somehow outsmarting him by slowing down really fast. The thing is, on a gsxr-600 I can go from 75 to 81 by coughing. On a well lit, four lane, empty highway in the middle of the night, I don't think anything under 85mph should warrant a ticket. What a weenie.

66 in a 65 could warrant a first ticket in some cities. I've seen the way people ride those crotch rockets (passing me doing 90 in a 60) and I have no sympathy for any of you who get a ticket driving that crazy. Do you have a family, wife, kids, parents? The only difference between my funeral and yours is that mine funeral will be an open casket (again - something someone shared with me this week) because I've buried 3 people in 12 days!

You know what they call a CR? Organ Donors! I didn't make it up either. It came from my Doctor!

Be safe
Ex (but still Certified Peace Officer-State of Texas)

[TrevorW]

It may depend from state to state, but in Arkansas if you'll look at your ticket, you only have to worry about going down town if you were 1) a jerk 2) you were already naughty 3) you were going 20+ the speed limit. Keep it under 20 past the limit and you'll just get a ticket.

OR, you could just be careful and watch the speed limit signs.

[AEKWN]

I treat them just like I treat everyone else. They're people just like me. That said, I make sure to know my rights and to be polite. I've only been pulled over once, and that was for flashing the car with my brights manically (He had his brights on and I was blinded by them). The officer pulled a u-turn and blipped his siren several times. He asked me exactly what I thought I was doing flashing my brights like that. I said "Officer, the rest of us manage to get by just fine without our brights, is there some reason why you need them?" Looking back on it, I suppose I was being a tad rude, but being blinded by high beams is one of my pet peaves.

[TxFLSTC]

Do you get off your bike? Do you wait for the officer? Or do you pull out your 9 and start shooting ;)?

I have only been pulled over once on my bike. I got off my bike and kept my hands in clear view. He ask me for my license and insurance... I ask permission to dig it out of my bag... I did... he let me go with a warning.

Most cops are cool to bikers... but you got to be cool with them first. They deal with aholes all day...

[briang]

I've heard crying has gotten many a female out of a ticket. I wonder if that would work for males as well...

I can imagine a 350 pound biker, sitting on his bike, belly shaking from sobbing, tears getting in his foot-long beard as the cop walks up. The cop would probably turn on his heel, get back in his cruiser, and be on his way without saying a word.... :)

Anyone out there wanna try that and report back to us what happened????

Well I never got pulled over on my bike, but I did get out of a speeding ticket 65/45 in the truck once by doing that.:D








I'm not kidding.

[TrevorW]

That's funny! I wouldn't tell too many people that though.

I tend to panic when I get pulled over. I mean, I don't get the desire to speed or anything, but for some reason I just CAN'T relax. I talk fast and sound kinda whine y. I say the "yes sir/no sir", but I'm always nervous that my nervousness will get me in more trouble.

[jdaniels]

I stop,sidestand down,wallet out,stay on bike,present drivers license when leo walks up,don't say anything unless asked a question,answer with a respectful tone,say silent prayer that it'll only be a warning rather than a ticket.:o

[PerrySB]

I’d like to respond to Maverick question. I’m a California cop and 80 to 85 is quite common on our freeways. However the key word to me was you were doing this at night. You have less visibility at night and there in lies the problem. I’m more tolerant of speed during daylight hours than I am at night. My attitude is that I care more about the individual’s safety; if I feel you are being unsafe I’m going to stop you. The decision of if I should cite you or not to me is based on your attitude. Not so much on how you respond to me but if you understand why I stopped you and realize you were being unsafe. Most people are upset when they are stopped, that is a normal feeling. How you react to that frustration can play a big factor in the outcome. I personally don’t like writing tickets, I get no pleasure in detaining someone, but what I hate more is working an accident seen where I need to go tell someone’s loved ones they won’t be coming home and you can see the body at the morgue. One other thing, maybe it is my mistrusting nature but if someone is too nice, to polite, I always wonder what they are hiding. I know a cops mentality right.

[aaronrkelly]

When I get stopped I pull over at the next safest spot, turn the bike off, put the sidestand down then remain seated with my hands on my head.

I work in law enforcement and I dont get ANYWHERE unless Im armed. So I keep my hands in plain view.

Last time I got pulled over on my cycle I had rolled thru a stop sign.

I did the above procedure, was polite and even being an LEO I STILL got a ticket.....paid it two days ago. $92 for Cali rolling a stop sign.

So for all you guys that think officers dont ticket other officers.....it aint true.

[PerrySB]

aaronrkelly
Wow, you must have run across a real jerk, I never have ticketed another cop, and I have stopped a few in my day. That guy that wrote you should know that what goes around comes around. Tell me who hasn’t rolled a stop sign a few times. I could see it if you were DUI or doing something really out of line, but a stop sign. His wife must have told him no the night before.

[benstead]

66 in a 65 could warrant a first ticket in some cities. I've seen the way people ride those crotch rockets (passing me doing 90 in a 60) and I have no sympathy for any of you who get a ticket driving that crazy. Do you have a family, wife, kids, parents? The only difference between my funeral and yours is that mine funeral will be an open casket (again - something someone shared with me this week) because I've buried 3 people in 12 days!

You know what they call a CR? Organ Donors! I didn't make it up either. It came from my Doctor!

Be safe
Ex (but still Certified Peace Officer-State of Texas)

To the ex (but still certified) peace officer of the great state of Texas:

Is it just me, or is your post difficult to read?

“The only difference between my funeral and yours is that mine funeral will be an open casket because I’ve buried 3 people in 12 days!”

Uh, well ok.

Anyhow, don’t be such a pretentious motorcyclist thinking you're god on two wheels, able to control your possible destiny with the pavement. We all risk an untimely death to a higher degree than those enclosed in a vehicle.

The majority of motorcyclist accidents I read about are people riding while intoxicated and/or hitting a deer. And while I haven’t looked into these accidents further to learn of the particular style of bike, I will tell you the 50+ age of these fatalities indicates these riders were on anything but a sport bike.

So just to be clear though, you consider it crazy that I was going 81mph on a 65mph, empty and well lit highway? Good grief.

[burnd]

during my very first highway ride, i exited the highway and was promptly pulled over for running a stop sign. i felt super high from the experience so it didn't bother me. i made sure my attitude was clear i didn't care about getting pulled over, showed that i respected the officer's authority, and got a warning. never act defeated or aggressive, just cool. i think acting sad makes the officer feel just as uncomfortable and more likely to write a ticket as if you were arrogant. plus it shows you expect punishment.

[PerrySB]

benstead
There is a big element of truth to what you said. We have several bars in our area that a lot of guys from the valley like to ride up to. Sit in the bar most of the day then ride home. Many of these people are 50 plus guys with cruisers and we do see a lot of accidents with them and where alcohol is a big factor. The other group is sport bikes that I commonly clock at 110 to 140 mph and am not foolish enough to chase them. We just pick up the body parts when they miss judge a corner, or run into something. Posted a picture showing the effects of a sport bike and a young rider hitting the back of a semi at 125 mph. It is posted under new riders. There are lots of reasons for accidents, most accidents with bikes in our area is single vehicle accidents where the rider made a bad mistake. Seldom are cars responsible for these accidents but occasionally they are

[aaronrkelly]

aaronrkelly
Wow, you must have run across a real jerk, I never have ticketed another cop, and I have stopped a few in my day. That guy that wrote you should know that what goes around comes around. Tell me who hasn’t rolled a stop sign a few times. I could see it if you were DUI or doing something really out of line, but a stop sign. His wife must have told him no the night before.

That was my outlook on it to. Heck, I wouldnt write ANYBODY (unless they were being a jerk or there were other circumstances) for easing thru a stop sign on a bike.

Then again Im a rider, almost 90% of the cops I work with are riders and this guy is not.

[hsartteacher]

I am always polite, and respectful. I've been pulled over by LEOs twice in the past 6 months, and was not ticketed.

[cjren]

Have you tried complimenting him on his big gun??? Maybe that'll help, haha. :D
oh officer your gun is so big ;);)

i dont plan on being pulled over

[jackthesmack]

Last time I got pulled over was when an officer was silently following me (no sirens) while I was speeding 50 down a 25 speed limit thoroughfare, and he finally put on his siren when I avoided a car making a left turn, in the opposite direction, that didn't see me.

He pulled me over, and started asking why I did all that. I just said I was an idiot not thinking. He then said not to do it again and went off.

[DarkHorse9825]

I just responded to a motorcycle collision the other day (I say collision because this was no accident.) Anyway, this was a male, mid to early twenties, on an older crotch rocket. He was coming home from work, like he does everyday, and was showing off to locals in a small village. The unfortunate thing was that he was doing this in a construction zone. Lots of heavy equipment and the pavement was covered in lose sand and dirt. Well, this young person ripped through the construction zone (estimated speeds at 80 to 100 kilometers per hour/ 50 to 60 miles per hour) and met the back end of a dump truck that was turning around. The lad wasn’t killed, but he is going to walk with a permanent limp. It was reported that he had been ridding through the ditches and around pylons the previous day. Oh ya, he had a cooler strapped to the back of the motorcycle and it had beer in it. Two bottles were empty. He did get a free helicopter ride out of the whole thing.
Not only was the motorcycle driver injured, the driver of the dump truck was shaken up quite badly, not to mention the people who were around to see this. Reckless and irresponsible motorcycle driving affects more that just the cyclist. You are harder to see than a car or truck, and are able to maneuver in areas other vehicles can’t. Doing this in a dangerous manner will only lead to injury or death. I am not harder on motorcycle drivers when I stop them, but I do believe motorcycle drivers should drive more responsibly than a car driver simply because of the freedom the motorcycle will allow the driver. When I say freedom I am referring to the ability to weave in and out of traffic and operate the motorcycle in tight areas.
Oh ya, If I hadn’t mentioned it already I ride a motorcycle too (Yamaha V-star 1100)

[schlyme]

ok heres one, in california i can wear ear plug and i do cause i also work at the airport so i'm a higher risk of hearing loss than others, plus genetic says i will suffer hearing loss and have already started. so if i need to take off my helmet to take out my ear plugs and hear what the officer says to me, do i wait for the officer to come up next to me or do i start taking off my helmet when i stop. my guess is from what those of you in law enforcement will say is wait. but just want to hear it from ya'll :) .oh and seeing as i work at the airport, i get alot of abuse, so think i know what L.E.O.'s go threw when dealing with sob's.

[PerrySB]

Regarding taking off your helmet, to me it wouldn’t matter. I could feel pretty confident that you don’t have a weapon hidden in your helmet and that is the only reason we are concerned when we approach someone. The truth is after a while I can watch the body language of the person and get a sense if they could possibly be a threat or not. If you pull your helmet off before the officer approaches you I would take that as a sign of openness and that you have nothing to hide and that you aren’t going to take off as I approach you. However that is just my opinion and other officers may have a different view point. In 99.9 percent of the stops the officer has nothing to fear, however we always need to be on guard for the 0.1 percent that can get us killed.

[RoadWarriorService]

I'm relaxed and neutral with the officer. After all, he's got a job to do. But so do I, so I keep my mouth shut and politely give short answers to legitimate questions. I won't incriminate myself or try to get chatty. Nor will I argue.

Though I have yet to get frisked or searched, I am prepared to say "I will not resist but I do not consent." Remember, you're both on the copcar camera.

Physically I take off my helmet and set it on my tank or mirrors. I rest my bike on the sidestand and lean against it (instead of straddling it, which would be awkward). And then I just wait for my ticket.

If I can help it I let him pull away first, but I get going in a direction that isn't the same as him if I have the option.

[amnesiac87]

I am fortunate enough to have not been pulled over on my bike yet (especially fortunate on the few rides I took when I still had the plates on it that expired in 86'). But I'd probably just act the same as I would when being pulled over in my car, cool, cooperative, and honest. I've been pulled over three times in the past three years, not once for speeding, and only got a ticket out of one of those incidents. That was for unknowingly driving with an expired driver's license, two weeks past the date. It got dropped in court.

From the experiences I've had with police I can say that if you give them respect and show that you understand why you're having to speak to them, they'll be a lot nicer. I've only encountered one officer who's actually a complete jerk, but fortunately his jurisdiction is limited to my college campus (university police = heartless *******s) and can't pull people over unless they're on one of a few streets. This guy pulled me over on my bicycle one night in a very well lit area near campus, over the summer break of all times, and proceeded to frisk me. Found nothing but the two Top tobacco cigarettes I had on me at the time and broke them because he thought they were joints. Really fair guy;) I could go into the other ridiculous experiences I've had with him but none are realted to motorcycles.

[GI Jack]

There is a lot of talk about RK, young officers, attitudes and other things here. As a former Officer who could still be one - for your safety and the Officer behind you- LET THEM SEE YOUR HANDS as soon as you put that kickstand down! I don't care how fast you were going, who you are, what your attitude is but if I can't see your hands-my hand will be on my 9mm too! It has nothing to do with what you drive or ride but it is something taught in the academy. It's a sad story when you look at all of the fallen Officers because they got "laid back" during a traffic stop and were more interested in being courteous than safe & got shot.

I went through military police school, and they taught me all the tricks of how to finger **** you pistol without making it "obvious". Its bull****, I can tell when your finger ****ing your pistol.

edit: I also don't like those cops from rich towns with next to zero crime rate. Its mostly them who seem to have the worst attitudes.

Most of the older cops around me are fine, but its those damn rookies make me really nervous. Thats intent on deadly force, a little harsh for speeding.

Pulling the whole tough guy act on speeders and minor violations is obnoxious. It just really pisses me off and makes me think your a douchebag on a power trip. This also includes shining your search light in my mirrors(in a car), and pulling up to my blind spot, etc...., and if you talk to me like your about to rodney king my ass it doesn't help either.

Be polite but never admit to any wrong doing. If the cop asks you how fast you where going just say 'I don't know' or some variant of that. Many times, this can, but isn't a guarantee to get you out of minor violations. note I said MINOR.

[DarkHorse9825]

All though I do agree with GI Jack to some extent about rookie cops, I disagree with his comment about shinning spot lights in mirrors and parking a the blind spot.
I don't do this to intimidate anyone. Like I said before, I don't know whom I am dealing with, so I will put my self at the advantage at any opportunity that I can. Shinning my spotlight in the mirror prevents the driver from seeing what I am doing, and the same with parking in the blind spot.
And if you think we make a big deal over minor traffic violations, my partner stopped a vehicle for such a violation (speeding) and end up arresting the driver because he was wanted for second degree murder. To boot he had a six-inch knife stashed between his seat and the center console, and I don't think he was going to use it for culinary purposes.

Better Safe then sorry.

And by the way, if you did something wrong and got caught, suck it up butter cup.

[mtk1210]

I've had a few instances in college where cops showed leniency, so some of the inconveniences they've cause me of late can be forgiven.

But to answer the question, I turn off the bike, kickstand down, visor up, hands on the handle bars and wait, comply and then go on my way.

[PerrySB]

You all probably understand that every profession has its learning curves. Well law enforcement is no different. Young inexperienced officers go through a learning process just like any other profession. Also every officer knows when you make a stop you do not know who you are stopping and what potential dangers they may be walking into. Take a look how many officers have been killed making traffic stops and that may give some of you an understanding of why we respond the way we do at times. Over the years I have had some pretty scary encounters and been hurt a few times in the process. A rookie officer is very aware and has been taught the dangers so just remember some may approach you with a degree of fear and apprehension. Oh they most likely won’t admit it but it is there with many of them. Every one of us wants to go home to our families after every shift, unfortunately way too many officers have failed to complete their shift and gone home safely. Many leave behind a wife and young children so please try to give these guys a little understanding.
Yesterday in Sacramento a motor officer was killed when a 79 year old man turned in front of him. He was in pursuit of a car with lights and siren on. He leaves behind a wife and two young children. He was a thirteen year veteran of the department and a very experienced rider.

[Goliath616]

I have said it before and I will say it again, there should be MANDATORY road tests every year after the age of 55!!!!

[sportbikegirl]

I've heard crying has gotten many a female out of a ticket. I wonder if that would work for males as well...

I can imagine a 350 pound biker, sitting on his bike, belly shaking from sobbing, tears getting in his foot-long beard as the cop walks up. The cop would probably turn on his heel, get back in his cruiser, and be on his way without saying a word.... :)

I have cop friends, and aparently they're pretty cold blooded cuz they tell me that if a chick starts bawling.. she's getting a ticket!
Reminds me of a funny story: I got pulled over and got a ticket (not the funny part)... I could tell he was a new officer cuz he was darn near shaking. As he was writing my ticket, he asked for my phone number (presumably to put on the info on the ticket). I just smiled real sweet and said "Are you really gonna call me?"... thought the poor kid was gonna wet himself...

[NAKEDandALONE]

Anytime I get pulled over I always try to find a safe spot. I'll drive for a mile or more if I have to, but I'm not gonna pull over on the side of a busy road. That's just asking for trouble - some moron is gonna clip either the officer or both of you.

Find a parking lot or a rest stop!

It's perfectly ok to slow down, set your hazard lights, and continue driving until there is a safe place to stop.

Make sure you tell the officer that you weren't about to stop in an unsafe spot too, I'm sure it'll be appreciated and possibly set a more friendly tone.

[Archangel]

I have never gotten a ticket on my bike yet.
I hope to continue my good luck.
I guess It helps not doing any thing wrong.
Ok except for the occasional ran yellow- redish light By mistake or to get a cage off my back side.

[Upinflames]

Try this link...It shows EXACTLY what to do.:)
http://s428.photobucket.com/albums/qq8/upinflames_photo/?action=view&current=Sorry_Officer_.flv

[Kaellie]

In regards to your rights.
Remeber, if being polite and mild mannered doesn't get out off with a warning, the best possible thing you can go is to make yourself as memorable-less as possible. As I understand it, if you are a severe prick who gets his rocks off trying to tell a cop how to do his job (I mean really, do cops come to your work and tell you how to do yours?) or are mouthy, rude, argumentative, etc. You better believe he/she will take special pleasure in making sure they are there for court on your "special date." If they don't really remember you at all, it weakens their case in court. Sometimes to the point of not bothering to show up for the case against you.
So if you don't get a ticket, be grateful, and if you do get one, be forgetable.

[Upinflames]

I have said it before and I will say it again, there should be MANDATORY road tests every year after the age of 55!!!!

Let's not pack us all into the same crate, ok ? I'm 58 and an avid chopper and cager driver. Still VERY observant and in complete control of my faculties. To be judged alongside a doddering 79 yr. old for HIS mistake is just wrong. How about the number of YOUNG drivers that cause many an accident ? I think you should look at these occurances on a case by case basis, ya' know ? :confused:

[Dodsfall]

In regards to your rights.
Remeber, if being polite and mild mannered doesn't get out off with a warning, the best possible thing you can go is to make yourself as memorable-less as possible. As I understand it, if you are a severe prick who gets his rocks off trying to tell a cop how to do his job (I mean really, do cops come to your work and tell you how to do yours?) or are mouthy, rude, argumentative, etc. You better believe he/she will take special pleasure in making sure they are there for court on your "special date." If they don't really remember you at all, it weakens their case in court. Sometimes to the point of not bothering to show up for the case against you.
So if you don't get a ticket, be grateful, and if you do get one, be forgetable.

I've actually had this happen before. The cop showed up to court, but didn't remember giving me the ticket. (Not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign) Ticket dropped. Free to go.

[kschilk]

It's the damned Freudian slips that always get me. I probably could've beat a couple tickets but when you slip-up and call the District Magistrate the "District Masturbate", ya' don't get outta' nothin'. :(

[rustydog]

If you were pulled over by a motorcycle cop you could wait untill he got up to you, then say "hey I know you,your the guy in the song"-then start singing and doing the Y.M.C.A.

[kschilk]

If you were pulled over by a motorcycle cop you could wait untill he got up to you, then say "hey I know you,your the guy in the song"-then start singing and doing the Y.M.C.A.

Sorry man....but I'm pretty sure if there was even the slightest chance of bein' hauled-off to jail, that's one song I'd be avoidin' like the plague! :eek:

[rustydog]

Yea your probably right.I guess practicing for the swine calling contest for next years county fair wouldnt be a good idea either,but just thinkin of a way to kill some time while your waiting

[EthiopianRyder]

Well growing up in a nice neighborhood and being black i've had my fair share of cops (pulled over 4 times and the best part............... on my Bicycle yes....... on yes......on those things with pedals) one of the cops acutally had his gun drawn (i had a duffle bag, i was coming home from football practice) anyway as much as they tried to be harda$$ i was politle and did the started and ended everything with they usually get pretty friendly and leave with peace. I still try to avoid them do lol

Just like someone mentioned above they just tried to stay alive

[jackthesmack]

Usually I hammer on the accelerator and evade the police. In a dense urban city it's real easy to get away, then find a hiding spot and wait for the heat to die down. Always carry an extra set of plates with me too just in case.

[freeonthree]

I havent been pulled over in years. When ya get older, they don't want to play with you unless you really screw up. I can cruise Main at 3am, and they don't even notice me. Knock on wood...

[DarkHorse9825]

Upinflamers, I love that video. Kill myself laughing everytime I see it:D

[freeonthree]

I love the end where the cop beat the crap out of that fudge packer. lol

[Archangel]

I have never got a ticket on the bike and don't plan on it.
Good thing I didn't get pulled over today forgot my permit.
woops did I do that.

[freeonthree]

When I was younger, my license was revocked for 3 years, 3 times, and I rode every day, but as soon as I got my license back I would get a ticket for speeding again, go figure.... Now im older, and I cant even remember when I got my last ticket, and thats a good thing. Low and slow, thats me today. Dennis

[GSXR600K2_925]

Well I live in the ghetto... So I pull over as quickly and as safetly as I can. I remove my keys hold them in my hand and hold both hands up with the keys clearly visiable and wait there till the officer tells me to put my hands down. Safeist way right there.

[Archangel]

It kinda scares me how many people know the answer by experience.:eek:
I hope I never have to demonstrate the proper way to a cop.:D:D

[WingZeroX35A]

I got pulled over once by blowing through a stop sign at 15mph. My license was under my mil ID so the cop had a good 4 second look at it (the plastic was stuck to each other). He saw my license and asked what that ID is, then proceeded to ask me what branch. I replied and he said "good enough" and moved on.

Did I mention that this was in NYC? :D

[Badlands-4-2]

As a former police officer I can tell you what to do. Drive to a safe spot to stop, but not to far (makes them wonder what you are up to). Stop the bike and put the kick stand down and turn off the motor. Stay on the bike with your hands in view, not in pockets etc. Then listen. The officer will tell you what to do from then on. I saw the video earlier in this post. Funny, but not the best way to approach the problem. Most officers are just men/women doing their job. Some are jerks. So are some people who are doctors and the drive through help at McDonalds etc.

[maverick883]

Usually I hammer on the accelerator and evade the police. In a dense urban city it's real easy to get away, then find a hiding spot and wait for the heat to die down. Always carry an extra set of plates with me too just in case.

AND THIS WILL BE YOU SOME DAY : High Speed Motorcycle Chase Ends with a 120mph Faceplant


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSOU-QjMfv4

[Goliath616]

LOL or in a 6X8 cell with Bubba

[jackthesmack]

AND THIS WILL BE YOU SOME DAY : High Speed Motorcycle Chase Ends with a 120mph Faceplant


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSOU-QjMfv4

I'll be a drunk driver?

[maverick883]

No, no...odds are usually against people that run from cops

[Dewm]

I live in a smaller town with around 20 police for the whole area so its not to hard to know them all,

First and only ticket was 3 months after i got my car, $400.00 and 10points for street racing. I have since then been pulled over 4-5 times for diffrent things, I am always polite. and I even stop and chat with them for a while. Most of em arn't that bad.

[TxFLSTC]

I'll be a drunk driver?

Well at least that guy had an excuse... he was not only stupid, but also drunk. When you run from the police you put everyone around you in harms way... you endanger other peoples kids... wives... mothers... do you get that?

In texas if your caught while running from the police it is automatic prison time... and a felany... as it should be.

[hsartteacher]

NO way am I running from the police. The consequences are much worse than just getting a normal ticket; plus you are putting other people in danger.

I've been pulled over 4 times since I started riding sportbikes (never got pulled over on a cruiser). Got off with a warning each time.. knock on wood. Each time I was polite and respectful. My husband got pulled over a couple times too, so far no ticket.

Even if I do get a ticket, I can always fight it OR worst case scenario, go to traffic school to avoid the points.

Traffic ticket vs. felony... not really a difficult decision.

[Archangel]

I am with you there teach.

[deadend]

hi live in uk england ,no guns,smile to the police man and they let you go