Approximately 50,000 drivers get pulled over daily in the U.S. — that’s 20 million a year. And while there are many reasons a car can get pulled over, there often seems to be a connection between certain vehicle types and flashing blue lights. Let’s delve into the statistics and break down which cars are police magnets and why, as well as what other factors influence your likelihood of being pulled over.
The Top 10 Most Pulled-Over Cars in the U.S.
While perhaps not the main reason a car will get stopped and ticketed, statistics do show that the car you drive might play a role. According to studies, the makes and models that are pulled over the most are:
- Subaru WRX
- Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- KIA Stinger
- Dodge Challenger
- Nissan 370Z
- INFINITI G37
- Mitsubishi Lancer
- Scion FR-S
- Audi A3
- Mini Cooper
Why Certain Cars Get Pulled Over More Often
Although a flashy sports car that’s revving at the lights will likely turn a police officer’s head, it’s not necessarily the luxury sports cars that are at the top of the list for a ticket. So, what is it about these particular makes and models that attract attention?
The Price of the Car
The price point tells a story. Surprisingly, budget sports cars, such as some of the ones above, outrank luxury supercars. In fact, most ticket-magnet models cost half the price of the average new car. Perhaps people who drive expensive cars have invested too much to take risks.
The Age of the Driver
Young drivers tend to buy fast, affordable cars much like those on our list. According to statistics, drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 are the most likely to be pulled over by a police officer. These drivers are less skillful and take more risks behind the wheel of a powerful car than more experienced drivers.
The Condition of the Vehicle
Excessive modifications, such as dark windows, loud exhaust pipes, oversized spoilers, and poorly executed body kits, spell trouble. A number of the most commonly modified cars made it onto the top 10 list above. Dents and missing parts are also factors that can justify a closer look.
The Role of Car Color
Contrary to popular belief, the car color with the biggest tendency to be pulled over by law enforcement isn’t red. Data puts white cars first in traffic stops and has done so for a decade. It isn’t because owners of white cars break the rules more than other owners; it’s simply a matter of popularity. White cars are the most sold cars around and make up around 35% of the auto population. It’s believed the reason for this is that white cars are statistically the safest, possibly because they’re easier to see, especially in the dark.
The Main Reasons Vehicles Get Stopped and Ticketed
While your car type can influence a police officer to pull you over, it’s usually more about you than your car, and more specifically, your behavior behind the wheel. The five most common reasons a car is stopped by cops are:
- Speeding:Â Speeding is by far the most common reason that drivers get pulled over on the road, constituting 49% of all traffic stops. It’s important to remember that speed limits are there for a reason and have your safety in mind.
- Using a cell phone illegally:Â Cell phone use while driving is another big culprit and the cause of many accidents. Save your texting for when you’re not behind the wheel.
- Changing lanes improperly:Â Cutting off another vehicle or constantly switching lanes without signaling often catches police officers’ attention. Driving in this way is dangerous and can lead to accidents.
- Violating equipment use:Â Cars are frequently pulled over because of overly tinted windows, cracks in windshields, or broken headlights. These are easily spotted and are common reasons for a ticket to be issued, so ensure your car is in good shape.
- Tailgating:Â This is another one that police officers see a lot of. It can also be extremely dangerous, especially at night or when it’s snowing or raining.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding is more than just breaking the law. It has been a factor in approximately one-third of all vehicle fatalities for more than two decades. Speeding endangers the life of the driver and everyone around them, including the police officers whose job it is to stop them. Even driving at the speed limit can affect safety under certain conditions, such as in badly lit areas or during extreme weather.
Aggressive driving has also become a major cause for concern, and speeding is the most common type. It often starts with simple situations, such as being late for an appointment or just having a bad day, but it can spiral into something much bigger. If you observe someone driving aggressively around you, make sure to give them plenty of space, and call the police if you think someone is following or harassing you.
Legitimate Ways To Contest a Traffic Ticket
Receiving a traffic ticket can be frustrating, especially when you believe it’s unjustified. Before you pay up, know that you have the option to dispute a ticket. Valid reasons to contest a ticket include mistakes on the ticket, incorrect allegations, insufficient evidence, and mitigating circumstances where emergencies or safety conditions factor into your actions.
There are various reliable strategies you can use, but it’s essential that you investigate and understand the processes involved. Make sure your argument is strong and that it’s supported by the right evidence. Familiarize yourself with the mechanics of the legal process to raise your chances of success, and always ensure you have good legal support.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Whether the ticket is a minor infraction or something more serious, there are rights you’re entitled to. These include the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, the right to evidence related to your ticket, including the officer’s notes and any available video footage, and the right to a fair trial.
Stay Safe and Legal on the Road With American Auto Insurance
Whatever your experiences with traffic tickets, law enforcement, or aggressive drivers, there are many good reasons to take precautions and follow safety procedures. Every good habit you adopt while driving protects lives, reduces accidents, promotes responsible driving, and ensures pedestrian safety.
Having valid insurance can help you avoid additional penalties and keep a clean driving record. If you need advice about SR-22 insurance or have any questions about your insurance options in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us at American Auto Insurance, Illinois, at 773-286-3500.
Police Officer Writing on a Notebook by Kindel Media is licensed with Pexels License
