What am I required to do during a traffic stop?
Dec. 30, 2022
During a traffic stop, you are required to follow the instructions of the police officer who has pulled you over. This includes:
Pull over to the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so.
Stay in your vehicle unless the officer instructs you to step out.
Keep your hands in plain sight at all times.
Follow the officer's instructions, including any requests to present your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance.
Be respectful and polite to the officer.
It's important to remember that during a traffic stop, the police officer has the authority to issue citations and make arrests if necessary. If you are asked to step out of your vehicle, you should do so calmly and follow the officer's instructions.
It is also important to note that you have certain constitutional rights during a traffic stop, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. If you are arrested or detained during a traffic stop, you should exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney.
During a traffic stop, you are not obligated to answer any questions beyond providing your name, driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance. You are not required to answer any questions about where you are coming from, where you are going, or why you were pulled over.
You are also not required to consent to a search of your vehicle. If an officer asks to search your car, you have the right to refuse. However, keep in mind that if an officer has probable cause and a search warrant to search your car, they may proceed with the search without your consent.
It's important to remember that during a traffic stop, you should remain calm and respectful to the officer, but you are not required to answer any questions or consent to any searches that you are not comfortable with. If you are unsure about your rights during a traffic stop, you can ask to speak to an attorney.