Nobody wants to be pulled over by a police officer. Even more, no one enjoys receiving a traffic ticket, especially if you are on a car rental vacation. Whether you're driving on a highway, down a rural road, or on busy city streets, it's important to remember the police are there for your protection, and for the protection of others on the road. So don't be foolish — drive smart! Here are some ways to avoid a traffic ticket while driving your independent car rental.
Obey the Laws — Or Else
The best and only way you can guarantee you will avoid a traffic ticket is to follow the rules of the road. This isn't always as easy as it may seem, especially if you are visiting a new country, state, or province in your rental car. The next time you rent a car, take the time to review any unique driving laws in your destination. Easy advice to follow includes driving based on the posted speed limits, using your turn signal, wearing your seatbelt, and always driving with a zero blood-alcohol content. Remember, the only real way to avoid a traffic ticket is to obey the law.
When You Get Pulled Over
It's normal for your heart to race a bit when you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror. Always remain polite and respectful — often, it's for a routine procedure. If you do get pulled over:
- Stop your vehicle as soon as you see the flashing lights. Pull over to a safe location, put your vehicle in park, turn off your engine, and put on your four-way lights.
- Be polite! Turn off your radio and GPS. Politely ask passengers to remain quiet. Roll down your window.
- Be ready to produce documents — your driver's license, plus any paperwork from your car rental company including insurance and ownership papers.
- Never plead ignorance. Despite being a visiting driver in a rental car, it is your responsibility to know the rules of the road.
Drive Defensively and Be Aware
One of the easiest ways to protect against a traffic ticket is to be aware and drive defensively. Watch for road signs specifying local rules, in particular speed limits. Checking your mirrors regularly will help you monitor the other vehicles around you, and will also help you detect a police officer who might be following you. Not noticing the flashing lights of a police cruiser is a signal you are a distracted driver. If you can pull over as soon as the flashing lights come on, and follow the above tips, you could be back on the road without demerit points sooner than you think.
The best way to avoid a traffic ticket is simply to drive responsibly. Follow posted speed limits, stay alert, and always respect other drivers and law enforcement.
Compare car rental deals from independent agencies and enjoy a stress-free, ticket-free road trip.