Why Michigan Spring Patrols Mean More Traffic Stops

Law enforcement agencies use data-driven strategies to determine when and where to increase patrol activity. In Michigan, spring tends to show a spike in certain violations. As the snow melts and road conditions improve, drivers often become more relaxed or even reckless.

Common springtime priorities for Michigan police include:

• Speeding enforcement on clear roads
• Distracted driving checks, particularly phone use
• Seatbelt enforcement as part of the “Click It or Ticket” campaign
• Intoxicated driving (OWI/DUI) enforcement tied to spring break and warm-weather activities
• Expired vehicle registrations or equipment violations noticed during daylight stops

The combination of a more relaxed driving population and increased enforcement often leads to a significant uptick in stops—and, unfortunately, tickets and arrests.

What to Do When You’re Pulled Over in Michigan

Getting pulled over is never fun, but knowing what to do can keep the situation from getting worse. Here are some quick steps to follow if you're stopped during a Michigan spring patrol:

1. Use your turn signal and pull over safely to the right side of the road.
2. Roll down your window, turn off your engine, and place both hands visibly on the steering wheel.
3. Wait for the officer to ask for your license, registration, and proof of insurance before reaching for them.
4. Be polite but not overly talkative—everything you say can be used against you later.
5. Do not consent to a search unless the officer has a warrant or a legally valid reason.

Remember, Michigan law requires you to identify yourself and provide requested documents, but it does not require you to answer questions like “Where are you coming from?” or “Have you had anything to drink?” You have the right to remain silent.

Your Rights During a Traffic Stop in Michigan

Many people unknowingly give up their rights during traffic stops, which can lead to unnecessary charges or make defending against tickets more difficult. Here’s what you should know:

1. The Right to Remain Silent

Except for identifying yourself and providing driver's documents, you have no obligation to answer police questions. Politely stating “I prefer not to answer that” is a valid and protected response.

2. The Right to Refuse Consent to Search

An officer may ask, “Mind if I take a look in your car?” Many people feel pressured to say yes, but unless the officer has probable cause or exigent circumstances, you can refuse. Simply say, “I do not consent to a search.”

3. The Right to Legal Representation

If an encounter escalates to arrest or if you’re issued a ticket you plan to contest, you have the right to consult an attorney. Exercising this right early can have a major impact on your case.

Common Springtime Traffic Violations and How to Contest Them

Most police stops during spring patrols result in civil infractions like speeding or failing to signal. Some, however, lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. It's important to know your options if you believe a citation or charge was made in error.

Speeding Tickets

Springtime sees a spike in speeding tickets as drivers return to higher speeds on dry roads. In Michigan, the impact of a speeding ticket extends beyond fines—points on your license and insurance hikes can follow. If radar equipment wasn’t properly calibrated or if the officer can't provide specific documentation, the ticket may be dismissed.

Distracted Driving Tickets

As of June 30, 2023, Michigan law was updated to ban hand-held phone use while driving. If you received a ticket for holding a phone or using your GPS manually, there are potential defenses, especially if hands-free technology was used or there was an emergency.

Seatbelt Violations

Michigan law requires front-seat passengers to wear seatbelts, and police can stop you solely for not wearing one. However, officers must be able to clearly see the violation to justify the stop. If visibility is questionable, the stop itself may be challenged as invalid.

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)

Spring break, prom season, and graduation parties coincide with a sharp increase in OWI enforcement. A conviction can result in jail time, license suspension, and more. But the legality of the stop, test procedures, and officer conduct are all areas your attorney may challenge.

How to Fight a Traffic Ticket in Michigan

If you choose to fight your ticket or violation, you’ll go through a process that can vary slightly by court. Here's an overview of the typical steps:

1. Request a Formal Hearing

You must request a formal hearing (rather than simply paying the ticket) within the time listed on the citation—usually 10–14 days. This is your opportunity to state your case in front of a judge or magistrate.

2. Gather Evidence

This could include dash cam footage, dash logs from ride-share apps, GPS data, or witness statements. If the issue was speeding, you can request the officer's radar documentation and training records.

3. Appear in Court

Show up on time and dressed appropriately. When your case is called, you'll have a chance to question the officer and present your case. It’s often beneficial to have legal representation who understands the technical and legal challenges that might apply.

4. Outcomes

There are several possible outcomes: the ticket could be dismissed, reduced to a no-point violation, or upheld. Even if the case is not entirely dismissed, a reduction can save hundreds in fines and increased insurance premiums.

When a Traffic Stop Leads to Criminal Charges

Sometimes what starts as a simple stop escalates quickly. In Michigan, officers may arrest you at a stop for more serious infractions like:

• Driving with a suspended license
• Drug possession (even small amounts of marijuana if improperly stored in a vehicle)
• Outstanding warrants
• Unlawful possession of a firearm or other weapon

In these cases, the details of the stop become immensely important. If your rights were violated or if the stop lacked legal justification, your criminal defense attorney may be able to have key evidence suppressed or the entire case thrown out.

The Importance of Legal Assistance

A ticket may seem minor, but one or two points on your driving record can lead to license suspension or serious insurance hikes. And if you've been arrested or charged due to a traffic stop, having an experienced defense attorney is critical.

At Boria Law, we examine every aspect of your stop—from the initial reason for the stop to police conduct, search and seizure practices, and how evidence was gathered. We’ve had countless cases dismissed or reduced because we know the law and we know the courts.

If you’ve been stopped, cited, or arrested in Wayne, Oakland, or Washtenaw County—or anywhere in Michigan—don't go it alone. Call Michigan criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation.

Spring Stop Survival Tips

• Avoid unnecessary searches—politely decline consent.
• Keep your license, registration, and proof of insurance easily accessible.
• Use hands-free devices and don’t touch your phone.
• Know your surroundings—some municipalities are more aggressive than others. Plymouth, Livonia, and Novi are heavily patrolled.
• Record the stop using your phone if you can do so safely. Michigan is a one-party consent state; you are allowed to record public officials.

Being informed and composed can prevent a simple stop from turning into an expensive or lasting ordeal.

Need Help Contesting a Stop or Ticket? We’ve Got Your Back

If you’ve been pulled over during Michigan's increased spring patrols, whether it’s a ticket or something more serious, we’re here to help. At Boria Law, we handle everything from basic civil infractions to felony charges stemming from traffic stops. We don’t just dabble in this area—we make it our business to know Michigan traffic law inside and out.

Contact us at (734) 453-7806 or use our website to schedule your consultation. We’ll take the stress off your shoulders and help you fight your case with confidence.

Want to learn more about criminal defense in Michigan? We have a whole library of helpful resources.

Conclusion

Spring patrols in Michigan bring a heavy law enforcement presence on the roads, and while most stops are routine, some can spiral into more serious consequences. Understanding your rights, recognizing what you’re obligated to do, and knowing how to contest unjust citations or charges is the key to staying protected.

If you’re facing a violation that doesn’t feel right, don’t pay the ticket without speaking to an attorney. The consequences can be more serious than they appear. Reach out to Boria Law today at (734) 453-7806, and let us defend your rights and your record.

A traffic stop doesn’t have to upend your life—but only if you take the right steps immediately.