If you get pulled over for speeding, it’s likely the first question you’ll be asked is, “Do you know how fast you were going?” You may be completely oblivious to the fact that you were barreling along at 50mph in a 35mph zone, but how you respond to the officer’s question might just help you avoid getting a ticket. There’s a bit of nuance when it comes to what you should and shouldn’t say, but there’s only one correct response: “I believe I was going the speed limit.” That simple phrase will help you avoid both confessing and lying. Never, ever say to a police officer, “Yes, I know how fast I was going.” That will be interpreted as a confession and it’s unlikely you’ll walk away with only a warning. You also don’t want to say, “I don’t know” because that implies that you weren't paying attention, a big no-no when it comes to operating a motor vehicle. It also opens the door for less-than-honest cops, who can now say you were going any speed they choose, often resulting in a huge fine, points on your license, and an increase in your insurance premium. The best answer you can give to that question is, "I believe I was going the speed limit,” and the most important word in that sentence is believe because it suggests that you were within the speed limit yet leaves open the possibility that you could be wrong. It’s a win-win, and there’s a good chance you’ll just get a slap on the wrist and an admonition to be more mindful.
