What info does a police officer have to tell a driver when giving a speeding ticket?

Question

This is for a story I'm writing. What would a state trooper or police officer have to say - out loud - when writing up a speeding ticket? I'm thinking there would be information about the driver's rights or options regarding how to pay or dispute the ticket. I have received tickets before, but can't really recall all that was said, and I'd like this to be as accurate as possible. Any websites I could refer to? Thanks much for any help.

Answer 1

Press hard, 5 copies.

Any questions, contact the court house at this #

Court date is this day (variable with each agency)

Have a good day and drive safe

Answer 2

I can tell you because I just got a ticket in DE.  lol  They usually say "Good Day" or Good afternoon.  Then ask "Do you know why I stopped you/you were stopped?"  after we all say, "No oficer", they then tell you that you were going X mph in a 40 mph zone.  "Can I see your license and registration please?"  Then after coming back, they say something like "I'm issuing you a citation for speeding today.  On the back is instructions on how to pay the fine or to plead not guilty.  If you have any questions, there is a phone number on the ticket as well.  Have a good day/be carefull pulling out of here, etc.

I don't know if you'll find standard text, like Miranda, but you may find basics that they have to communicate, like why they pulled you over.

Answer 3

They dont have to tell you a thing in some states... even sometimes they can just mail you the ticket. They have to tell you why they pulled you over... and then tell you your infraction. That's about it... as a courtesy they tell you more...

Answer 4

That may be determined by state law, department policy, or both. It is definitely going to vary.

I am required to advise the motorist of the charge, the penalty, the points, and the court date. We do not give legal advice, so we do not talk about disputing the ticket. We only advise them they can appear on their court date.  

Answer 5

In California: absolutely nothing according to state law.

As others have noted, department policy may regulate this.