6 Things to Not Do to a Police Officer When Pulled Over

General information, not legal advice. This post describes how traffic stops, accidents and traffic court work in general. Every case turns on its own facts, and reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your own ticket, call The Traffic Ticket Attorneys at (310) 455-6810 for a free consultation.

Like it or not, there is bound to be a time when you drove a little too fast, or were a little late trying to beat that yellow light. If you do get pulled over by a policeman, what you say and do can have serious consequences.

You might be nervous, but remember that the officer never knows who might be behind the wheel. You can reassure him (or her) by dealing with the situation calmly.

Here are some general tips about how to handle being pulled over calmly.

No Sudden Movements

As soon as the officer decides to pull you over, they are watching you. Not necessarily because he expects you to grab for a gun, but because furtive movements could indicate you’re trying to hide something. Guilty people conceal evidence all the time and police look for such things. Sudden movement will only elevate the officer’s adrenalin.

When you’re pulled over:

• Roll down your window
• Put your hands on the wheel where they can be seen
• Sit quietly and wait for him to approach the car
• Say hello if you like, but wait for him to tell you what he wants
• DO NOT exit the vehicle unless asked

Don’t Start by Arguing

They didn’t pull you over to have a debate. The officer will likely ask you for your license, registration, and proof of insurance.

• Wait until he asks.
• If you reach for your wallet or glove compartment, do it slowly and let him know what you’re doing.
• Remain quiet with both hands on the wheel while he checks your ID.

Police have no obligation to explain themselves, answer your questions, or be your buddy.

Don’t be Rude

You don’t have to say “yes, sir” and ‘no, sir” constantly, but acting overly nervous, angry, or just saying more than is necessary can arouse suspicions.

• If you use false statements, verbal abuse, or shouts, that’s only going to get you in more trouble.
• If you don’t antagonize the police and have nothing to hide, just let him do his job, and you can go on your way.

Believe it or not, just being nice and reasonable can often mean the difference between a ticket and getting off with just a warning.

Don’t Refuse to Cooperate

There are legal limits to what an officer can do. However, in a bad situation, it’s not likely that he’s thinking over the statutes. Refusing or arguing any orders will make you appear resistant and could lead to arrest. A driver who feels their rights are being violated can make a mental note of it and of as many details as they can. That is something to discuss later with a lawyer – not during a tense moment with the arresting officer.

Don’t Forget They Make Mistakes, Too

A driver who feels they were wrongly pulled over can state their case politely, quietly and calmly. Maybe the officer will see the light of day. If not, and the officer writes a ticket anyway, the place to fight it is traffic court, after talking to an attorney.

• Don’t Say Too Much
• Keep your answers brief
• Be polite
• Do not volunteer information
• Don’t make excuses or give sob stories
• Don’t admit to anything

You may see the officer again, testifying in court. If you’re arrested, the right to remain silent is real.

Police officers are just people doing a job, like you. The only difference is, they often see belligerent drunks, or guilty criminals trying to escape or hide evidence. Don’t act like one.

Image: westmidlandspolice on Flickr.