NEWS
Getting Pulled Over by a Cop: What Should You Do?
Did you know that every single year, around 32 million American drivers find themselves getting pulled over by a cop?
No matter how much you plan and prepare, stuff happens out there on the road. People make mistakes and get into accidents, and they get pulled over by a cop. Not fun, right?
But the thing is, it doesn’t have to be that stressful. If you’re prepared, you can react to the situation in the best way possible.
To help you, we’ve put together a little guide to getting pulled over by a cop. Read on to learn more!
Understand the Situation and Remain Calm
Getting pulled over by a cop can be intimidating and nerve-wracking. It is important to remain calm and understand the situation. You should roll down the window, provide your license and registration, put your hands on the wheel, and avoid making any sudden movements.
If the police officer asks you questions, provide clear and neutral responses. Do not answer any incriminating questions or provide information that could be used against you.
Follow the Cop’s Instructions
When a cop pulls you over, you must provide the officer with your license, registration, and proof of insurance.
When speaking to the officer, do not make sudden movements, do not argue or get angry, and speak respectfully. Movements can look suspicious or intimidating while arguing can lead to a stressful situation.
During the traffic stop, keep your hands in clear sight, as it helps to keep the officer safe. Do not reach for your phone or any other item in your car until after the cop has finished their inspection.
Request an Attorney if Necessary
It’s important to be aware that in some cases, especially if the officer has suspicions of criminal activity, you might be asked to step out of your vehicle and answer questions. Doing so may breach your right to remain silent, which is why it’s vital to request an attorney if necessary.
This can help protect you from incriminating yourself since your attorney can defend your rights and advise you on the best course of action. It’s also important to remember that the police must have probable cause to search your vehicle, and if they don’t, then you have the right to exercise your rights.
Review the Citation and Take Action
Once the officer gives you red light tickets, review it thoroughly. If you choose to dispute the violation, take action. Take notes of the situation and consult a legal representative if necessary.
Acknowledge that you understand the officer’s instructions and adhere to their requests. If you have any questions, ask them immediately. Once the officer has given you the citation, take it and review it thoroughly when you’re at home.
Learning What to Do When Getting Pulled Over by a Cop
It is normal to feel scared of getting pulled over by a cop. However, knowing what to do when this happens can help you stay calm.
Make sure that you follow the instructions given by the officer. If a citation is issued because of traffic violations, be sure to comply with all relevant provisions.
Remember to always stay respectful of the officer involved. If you have any questions regarding legal advice, contact a lawyer for more information.
Keep reading our blog for more helpful tips.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
