It is a stressful situation to be pulled over by police. First and foremost, stay calm. You do not want to make matters worse by doing something that could end up with you getting hurt or arrested. This guide will walk you through what to do if the police ever pulls you over for a traffic ticket, so your experience goes as smoothly as possible.
If you have been pulled over and feel your rights were violated, Weiss & Associates, PC, can help you fight this incident. We can present your case and ensure your rights are respected. Call us at 212-683-7373 or email us for a free consultation.
DO Pull Over Immediately in a Safe Place
If the police pull you over, then you should pull over immediately and in a safe place. Do not try to outrun the police or hide your vehicle. This can result in an arrest for failing to stop or reckless driving on top of other charges, such as evading or resisting arrest. DO NOT Try to Run Away
It seems obvious, but do not do anything to draw attention to yourself or your vehicle if you are pulled over. Do not try to hide anything. Do not run away or suddenly move away from the car unless otherwise asked to by the officer. Do not resist arrest, even if you feel the office has mistreated you. If there is any question as to whether or not they have the right person, cooperate with them until they can verify your identity.
DO Keep Your Hands Where the Officer Can See Them
Place your hands on the steering wheel so the police officer feels safe as he or she approaches your vehicle. And then, when he is alongside you, ask if you can get your identification and insurance cards. This will avoid any misunderstandings that could result in an escalated situation.
DO NOT Make Excuses
The officer will likely tell you why they pulled you over. Whatever the reason, do not make excuses for it. But, as the same time, do not admit guilt. For example, if you were pulled over for speeding, and the police officer asks, “do you know how fast you were going?”, do not respond by saying a speed above the limit. By simply accepting the ticket, you will have a greater chance of success in the event you choose to fight your ticket or hire our firm to fight your ticket on your behalf.
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DO Stay Polite
If the police officer pulls you over, stay polite. Do not be rude or aggressive since this could get you into more trouble. Police officers are trained to read body language and signs of nervousness to determine if someone is guilty of a crime.
DO NOT Become Agitated
When pulled over, do not argue with the officer. Questions like “why am I being pulled over” can set a negative tone. This makes you more likely to end up with a traffic ticket. Stay calm and wait for the officer to ask questions.
DO Ask for Permission When Reaching for Anything
Avoid any sudden movements like reaching for something in plain sight – even if it is just a phone – unless instructed otherwise by police officers who ask where the item is located (and then only do so after they have given permission). When an officer asks you to exit your vehicle, ask them where they would like you to stand and what they would like you to do with your hands—this shows that you are cooperating and not resisting their orders.
DO NOT Get Out Of The Car
Immediately after being pulled over, roll down your window all the way. Place your hands on the steering wheel, and turn on your interior light if it is dark. Under no circumstances should you get out of the car. The only time you should exit or try to exit your vehicle is if the officer instructs you to. If so, follow the officer’s directions.
DO Remain Silent
If you are arrested or detained, say you wish to remain silent. Ask for a lawyer immediately. There is no need to give explanations or excuses. Do not sign anything or say anything without a lawyer present. You have the right to wait for your attorney to arrive to make informed decisions.
DO NOT Resist a Search
Depending on why you are getting pulled over, the officer may ask to search your vehicle. You do not have to consent to a search. The officer will need a warrant or probable cause if you disagree. However, in most cases, it is best to refrain from resisting a search. You can state that you do not consent to the search but do not resist. If the search was unlawful, speak with your attorney, who can later fight the incident in court.
Overall, you should remember that the best thing to do is stay calm and cooperate with the police. If you are pulled over for a traffic violation, there is nothing wrong with being polite and respectful towards officers. But, if you feel the police violated your rights at Weiss & Associates, PC, we can help you fight this incident in court. Call us at 212-683-7373 or contact us for a free consultation today.