Ignorance tops the list of most popular excuses used by drivers when trying to get out of a traffic ticket. According to an Insurance.com survey of hundreds of drivers nationwide, folks would say almost anything to avoid a fine.

The top responses reflected a driver's "lack of information," like being new to the area or being unaware of car equipment failure.

The results presented some sharp comparisons between males and females. More than 80 percent of the people who blame a wrong turn or unsafe lane change on the GPS are men. However, many more women than men play the 'bathroom' card when pulled over.

TOP 11 EXCUSES, ACCORDING TO INSURANCE.COM:

11. I'm just helping out; I wasn't even supposed to be driving.

10. My GPS said it was the right thing to do.

9. I was on my way to an emergency at the house or elsewhere.

8. I didn't do anything dangerous.

7. I had to go to the bathroom.

6. I missed my turn/exit.

5. I'm having an emergency situation in my car (spilled hot coffee, for example).

4. Everyone else was doing it.

3. I didn't know it was broken (tail light, for example).

2. I'm lost and unfamiliar with the roads.

1. I couldn't see the sign telling me not to do it.

When approached by Townsquare Media, New Jersey drivers had no problem coming up with quick excuses for a cop.

"I'm taking my wife to the hospital. She just had a seizure." - Matt Witschel, Oceanport

"I just moved down here a couple of months ago." - Eddie Devlin, Freehold

"My granddaughter has to go to the bathroom." - Debbie Jackson, Sayreville

According to Insurance.com's Michelle Megna, a number of lawyers typically recommend that drivers say very little when pulled over.

"The traffic cops are probably rolling their eyes because I'm sure that they've heard these excuses before," Megna added. "But there's no harm in giving it a shot, and I think that's why most people are quick to offer up a defense."

 

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM