How to Act During a Traffic Stop
- 1). Pull the car to the right side of the road and fully roll down your window, staying in the car unless you are asked to step out by the officer. When you ease your car to the side of the road then roll down your window, the officer receives the message that the person in the car is lucid and has nothing to hide. Staying in the car keeps you and the officer safe.
- 2). Place your hands on top of the steering wheel after turning on your four-way flashers. Seeing your hands on the steering wheel assures the officer that you are not reaching for a weapon or trying to hide something within the vehicle.
- 3). Remain calm and polite in conversation. The officer will ask you for your license, registration and possibly proof of insurance. Inform the officer of your movements to retrieve these items. For example, say, "OK, officer, but I have to reach into my glove box for those documents."
- 4). Tell the officer the truth. If the officer has pulled you over for speeding, admit you were speeding rather than lying about your speed.
- 5). Pull away from the curb slowly, using your left turn signal and checking your rear-view mirror. The officer will pull you over again if you peel out, kick up gravel or otherwise pull away in an aggressive and dangerous manner.