There are several steps to take if you are pulled over by the police to make the traffic stop go more smoothly and avoid extra charges.
- When you are first pulled over: Pull over as close to the curb as possible as quickly and as safely as possible. This lets the officer know you are complying with his or her demands and that you are not trying to flee.Roll down your window all the way, turn off your engine and have your hands in clear view. If it is night time turn on your interior lights.
- While talking to the officer: Always be polite, even if the officer is acting aggressive. Do not reach for your license or other documents until the officer asks you to do so. Officers are trained to watch out for people digging for things and for all they know you may be reaching for a weapon.
- Don’t give the officer a reason to search your car. Although police officers are not normally allowed to search your car without permission during traffic stops it is easy to give them a reason to do so. Be calm, do not reach for anything unless asked by the officer, and don’t move stuff around or throw anything out the window. These actions may be considered probable cause to search your vehicle. If anyone in your car is arrested the officer may search the vehicle, and if you as the driver are arrested your vehicle may be towed to do an inventory search.
- If you are asked to exit your vehicle do so calmly and only when asked by the officer. Do not make any sudden movements or reach for anything in your car or pockets. The officer may legally pat you down for weapons and if they notice anything suspicious they may retrieve it.
- When talking to the officer do not give them more information than they ask for. If they ask if you know why you have been pulled over politely say no and ask why they pulled you over. Any admissions can be used against you in court. Silence is not an admission of guilt and cannot be used against you.
If you are charged with any crime or infraction when pulled over by the police including traffic tickets or DWIs you should hire an experienced traffic lawyer to help you on your case. Call Traffic Law Stop today at (314) 644-7102.
Also a good idea to keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times unless asked to produce your driver’s license or anything else by the officer. That way they know where your hands are and that you are not reaching for a weapon or trying to hide something.