Vehicle Pulled Over by Law Enforcement

If you see flashing red or blue lights behind you (or hear a police siren), here’s what to do:

🛑 Acknowledge and Pull Over

• Signal with your right turn signal.
• Move safely to the right shoulder or curb.
• If it’s dark, try to stop in a well-lit area.
• On the freeway, taking the next exit can be okay if very close.
• If unsure whether it’s a real police vehicle (e.g., unmarked car):
  • Slow down, turn on hazards, and drive to a public place.
  • Or call 911 to verify.

🚘 Position Your Vehicle

• Once stopped:
  • Turn off your engine.
  • Turn on the interior dome light at night so the officer can see inside.

🙋 Stay in the Car

• Do not exit unless instructed.
• Roll down your window.
• Keep hands visible on the steering wheel.
• At night, turning on the interior light helps ease officer concerns.

📄 Be Polite and Comply

• The officer will ask for:
  • Driver’s license
  • Vehicle registration
  • Proof of insurance
• Know where these items are.
• Only retrieve them when asked.

✋ Movements Matter

• Avoid sudden movements, especially toward floor or passenger area.
• If reaching into glove box, narrate your actions:
  • “My registration is in the glove compartment, I’m going to reach for it.”

🔫 If You Have a Weapon

• If you have a legal firearm or other weapon:
  • Inform the officer calmly and clearly.
  • Example: “Officer, I want to let you know I have a licensed firearm in the vehicle; it’s stored [location].”
  • Then follow instructions exactly.

📋 Tickets or Warnings

• If issued a citation, you’ll be asked to sign it.
  • Signing is NOT an admission of guilt, just a promise to appear or handle the ticket.
• You can contest it later in court.
• Don’t argue at the roadside.

🚨 If Asked to Exit or Arrested

• Stay calm and follow all instructions.
• If suspected of DUI:
  • They may request field sobriety tests (FSTs) or a preliminary breath test.
  • If you’re over 21, you can refuse these roadside tests (though refusal may still lead to arrest).

🤝 Traffic Stop Etiquette

• Be polite, not confrontational.
• Avoid excuses or arguing.
• Respectful drivers are more likely to receive a warning.

❌ Do NOT Flee

• Never attempt to run or drive off – this turns into a serious criminal offense.

👥 Passengers

• Should remain quiet unless addressed.
• Keep hands visible.
• No sudden movements.

📌 Remember: A calm, respectful attitude keeps the interaction safer and smoother for everyone involved.