Understanding Pacing Speeding Tickets

Pacing Technique in Speed Enforcement

Pacing is a widely utilized method by law enforcement agencies such as police officers to enforce speed limits, primarily through the issuance of speeding citations / tickets / violations and the execution of probable cause traffic stops. This process involves a police officer using their patrol vehicle to match the speed of a vehicle suspected of exceeding the posted speed limits. The following outlines the standard protocols for conducting pacing:

Observation of the Target Vehicle:

The officer identifies a vehicle that is potentially exceeding the speed limit and initiates a pursuit at a safe distance for further assessment of the suspected violation.

Procedure for Pacing:

Confirm the established speed limit in the patrol area.

Identify the target vehicle.

Verify the speed of the target vehicle.

Compare the speed of the suspect vehicle against the posted or un-posted speed limit.

Maintain a safe and consistent distance from the target vehicle.

Establish probable cause for the traffic stop by confirming the violation based on the observation.

Considerations for Issuing a Traffic Ticket:

Assess relevant factors before proceeding with the citation issuance.

Understanding Pacing Speeding Tickets:

Pacing speeding tickets represent a common enforcement tool used by law enforcement agencies to uphold speed limits on roadways. This document aims to provide a clear overview of pacing speeding tickets, their issuance process, and the implications for drivers who receive them. By understanding the mechanics of pacing, drivers can navigate their rights and responsibilities regarding speed enforcement more effectively.

What is Pacing?

Pacing is a technique in which police officers follow a vehicle while maintaining a set distance and synchronizing their speed with that of the target vehicle. The officer relies on their vehicle's speedometer to determine the speed of the other vehicle. If it is determined that the vehicle is exceeding the speed limit, the officer may initiate a traffic stop and issue a speeding ticket.

Contesting or Challenging  a Pacing Ticket:

If you receive a pacing speeding ticket, you have the right to contest it. Here are steps you can take:

Consult and retain an expert or expert witness who specializes in traffic violations, such as pacing or clocking.

Gather evidence related to your case.

Prepare for court proceedings.