What to Do When You Get Pulled Over

Getting pulled over is a stomach-turning experience for anybody, especially the first time. In fact, fear of this moment can make young drivers especially timid and nervous on the road. Regardless of whether you get pulled over in the future, these tips should put your mind at ease, so it’s not as big of a deal.

Pulling Over

When you see a police car following you with its emergency lights flashing or siren whining, pull over to the right as safely but quickly as you can. Come to a complete stop somewhere that the officer can park behind you, soon but gradually enough to not cause a hard brake from the officer. Never hesitate to pull over, as reacting on time only looks good for you. Also, make sure to stop far off from the closest traffic, for the safety of the officer when they walk up to your window.

Before the Officer Arrives

It’s a good idea to turn your engine completely off once you’ve parked. For other small things you can do, make sure to roll your window down all the way and put out or get rid of any cigarettes or gum you were enjoying. Consider turning your interior lights on as well, but most of all, just follow directions and keep your hands on the wheel otherwise. Remember that a simple traffic pullover is one of the seemingly innocuous situations that actually kills officers quite often, so make sure to help them relax, and don’t present yourself as a challenge or threat.

Sitting and Waiting

One of the things you should never do is get out of your vehicle without being asked. There is a protocol for these situations, so follow it closely. You will need to sit, wait, and then produce your license and registration, but wait until the officer reaches your window and asks for them. Don’t suddenly reach for them without warning, and say where they are before you reach to get them.

Vehicle Searches

Normally a vehicle search won’t happen, because depending on the laws, an officer needs probable cause, which can be defined in many ways. Trying to hide something before the officer arrives will certainly make them more interested in doing a search, however, so don’t bother. Leave everything alone, but be aware than an officer can point out items in “plain view”, which can then be used as probable cause to search further.

Speaking to the Officer

All that matters when talking to the officer is that you respond to what’s asked of you, and little to nothing else. Often attempting to defend yourself will only imply further guilt, and you always have the right to not answer questions, but be careful how you use it.

There’s no perfect formula to getting out of a pullover without a ticket or worse, but if you follow these tips and make things easier for the officer, you should be better off in general. Good luck out on the roads, and drive safely!