What Not to do if Pulled Over by the Police

Recently, a motor vehicle driver in Alabama attempted to get out of a speeding ticket in metro Atlanta by concocting a unique lie to tell the police officer. The event occurred when the law enforcement officer clocked the driver traveling 90 miles per hour in a 70 miles per hour zone.  The motorist attempted to use a federal air marshal badge in his possession to pass himself off as a federal agent. When the law enforcement officer asked for additional credentials, the man told the officer that he had left his paperwork at home. On closer inspection, the law enforcement soon realized that the badge was a collector’s item. After a few more questions, the motorist admitted that he was not really a federal agent and revealed that he was actually a felon. As a result of his actions, the motorist was charged with speeding, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and impersonating a law enforcement officer.

In addition to not lying and claiming that you are a federal agent, there are many other things that you should do if you are pulled over by a law enforcement officer for a speeding ticket or any type of a violation. This article will review some of the important steps that you should take if you are pulled over by a law enforcement officer.

Steps to Follow if Stopped by the Police

If you are stopped by law enforcement, there are several steps that you should always remember to follow which include:

  • Acknowledge law enforcement by turning on your vehicle’s flashers, even if you must drive a substantial distance before finding a safe place to pull over.
  • Stop over at a location that is safe for both the driver and law enforcement officers. If you are driving in conditions that are dark, you should try to stop in an area that is well lit.
  • Remain in the vehicle. Getting out of your vehicle can communicate to law enforcement that you are aggressive or have something to hide in the vehicle.
  • Turn off the vehicle, roll down the windows, and turn on the light inside of the vehicle.
  • Remain calm by using deep breathing. Unless you have done something against the law, there is not anything to be nervous about. If you have committed a traffic violation, the worst thing that will happen is that you will be required to pay a fine.
  • Keep still and remain calm. You want to avoid communicating that you are a threat to law enforcement.
  • If you intend to fight your citation, make sure to keep your responses short and always avoid the admission of doing anything wrong.
  • Wait for law enforcement to ask for documents. Do not try to expedite the process by getting these documents ready while law enforcement approaches your vehicle.
  • If you are carrying a firearm, inform law enforcement that you are.
  • Remain polite and respectful while talking to the law enforcement officer. Any type of rude behavior will almost certainly make matters worse. This includes not arguing with the law enforcement officer.
  • Refuse any requests by law enforcement to search in your vehicle.
  • Sign any citations that law enforcement asks you to. This is not an admission of guilt, but just a recognition that you received the citation and agree to either pay the fine or argue against the charge.

Speak with a Skilled Traffic Offense Lawyer

Speaking with an experienced traffic offense lawyer can help you determine whether it is a wise idea to fight a speeding ticket. If you have been charged with a traffic citation, you should not hesitate to contact the legal counsel at Yeargan, Barber & Kert. We are committed to providing the legal representation that you deserve. Contact our law office today to schedule an initial free consultation during which time we will discuss your various available options.