Page 1 Traffic Stops
Page 2 DUI Stops and Roadblocks
Page 3 Searches and Arrests
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The time to review these guidelines is not during a traffic stop. Become familiar with them before you are pulled over so that when it counts, you don’t have to think about what to do.

Traffic Stop Guidelines

Immediately pull over
at the first safe place

If you see police lights in your mirror, IMMEDIATELY put on your right turn signal (so the officer knows you have seen him or her). Then pull over as soon as possible in a safe, well-lit place that won’t put you or the officer at risk. Turn off your engine and radio, stay in the car and have your passengers keep quiet.

Keep your hands visible
as the officer approaches your car

Because traffic stops are dangerous for police officers (dozens are injured and killed every year during traffic stops), the officer may approach your car cautiously. Roll down your window and place your hands where the officer can see them on top of your steering wheel. Do not make any sudden movements and wait to look for your license and insurance until the officer asks. DO NOT begin looking through your glove box for documents until you are asked or until after you explain to the officer what you are doing.

Stay calm and courteous

Be courteous. The officer is only doing his or her job. The officer is far more likely to write you one (or more) tickets if you are rude, accusatory or belligerent.

DO NOT admit guilt, beg, make excuses or answer trick questions

Many police cars have video cameras and audio recorders. What you say may be recorded and can be used in court. Even if the traffic stop is not recorded, the officer will write down what you say for use in court. If the officer asks, “Do you know why I stopped you?” your reply should be “I’m not sure, officer.” Excuses (like “I am late for work”) will usually not get you out of a ticket and can be taken as an admission of guilt. So can begging for forgiveness. The officer will write down your apology and a judge will read it later in court, making it difficult to claim you didn’t commit the offense.

Ask For a Warning

BEFORE the officer has begun writing the ticket, ask for a warning. Without admitting guilt, inform the officer that you try to be a courteous and law-abiding driver and that you would appreciate a warning instead of a ticket. The best time to do this is when you are handing the officer your driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance.

What do I do if I’m issued a ticket?

From the time you get hit with the blue lights, conduct yourself in a manner that will result in the least severe fines, car insurance rate increases, lost time, aggravation and anxiety. Do not let a traffic ticket ruin your day, it can be no big deal if handled properly.

DO sign the ticket, it does not mean you are admitting guilt or agree with the citation. Refusing to sign the ticket can become grounds for the officer to arrest you.

Go to Page 2: DUI Stops & Checkpoints >>>