What to do if your car is stopped by the police
Getting into the police at least once happens to almost every driver. But whether it's the first or tenth time you've been stopped, it's bound to make you a little nervous and afraid. Police cars are scary enough in the rearview mirror when they don't have their headlights and sirens on, it doesn't matter when they're on.
No matter why you get pulled over, there are a few things you should keep in mind throughout the process to make it as comfortable, easy, and safe as possible. It's always a little unnerving when you get stopped, but if you know exactly what to do when you get stopped, it won't matter much the next time it happens. Just keep these things in mind and everything should go smoothly.
Stop quickly and safely
Once you see flashing blue and red lights in your rear view mirror, you'll want to start the process of stopping. Start by slowing down and turning on your turn signals, as this will show the police officer that you are planning to stop when it is safe and convenient. Don't hit the brakes or pull over to the side of the road - just calmly and safely get over to the side of the road.
Act calmly and be compliant
Once your vehicle has been stopped, you will want to do everything you can to make sure the cop feels comfortable, safe, and not threatened. Start by turning off the car and roll down the front windows. Turn off or remove all distractions, such as playing music or a lit cigarette. Then place your hands on the steering wheel in position 10 and 2 so that the officer can always see them. When the policeman asks for your driver's license and registration, tell them where they are and ask if you can get them. Little things like that go a long way in making the officer feel like you're not a threat.
Answer any officer's questions politely and accurately. If you think you were stopped by mistake, calmly ask why you stopped. If you know why you were pulled over, apologize and try to explain why you violated traffic rules. Whatever you do, avoid arguing with the police; it is better to leave it to the court.
The police officer may ask you to sign the protocol, which you must do even if you are innocent. Signing your ticket does not admit guilt, and you can still contest the breach later. If an officer asks you to take a field sobriety test, you have the right to refuse it. However, if they suspect you are drunk, you may still be arrested.
After the departure of the officer
Once the officer is gone and you can walk, start the car again and calmly get back on the road. When you have the opportunity to stop at a more convenient place, do so and write down the stop. By writing down the exact location where you were stopped, the traffic and the weather conditions, you can get additional evidence if at any point you decide to dispute your ticket.
Getting stopped by the police doesn't have to be a big ordeal. While it may seem intimidating, the interaction is usually simple, straightforward, and fast. As long as you follow these steps, you will likely find that your stopover is much easier and more enjoyable than you expected.
