If you don’t know what to expect or how to manage yourself, even regular traffic stops can be unpleasant. Here are some of the top things to do immediately after being pulled over!
Safely Pull Over
When you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, the first thing you should do is communicate to the officer that you’ve seen his lights and intend to pull over. Turn on your flashers to alert the office that you intend to pull over to the side of the road. This will protect both you and the police. If feasible, choose a location with a wide shoulder and a well-lit area. Parking lots are also excellent places to stop since they reduce the chance of passing cars hitting you. Stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened and wait for the police to approach after you’ve pulled over and turned off your engine.
Remain in Your Car and Stay Calm
Roll down your window and place both hands on the steering wheel while staying in your automobile. Take a few deep breaths and wait for the officer to give you the OK to move. As the officer checks your documents or questions you, it’s a good idea to return your hands to the steering wheel and continue taking deep breaths.
Cooperate With the Officer
Treat the police with respect and react with “Yes, sir,” or “No, ma’am,” when the officer starts asking you questions. “Do you know why I pulled you over?” is a typical inquiry an officer may ask. Even if you know (for example, you know you ran a stop sign), simply say, “No, sir.” You want to be helpful, but you also don’t want to admit to any driving violations.
Knowing the top things to do immediately after being pulled over will help you stay calm and collected in that scenario. While knowing these tips is great for when you are in the situation, it’s much better to avoid the situation altogether. As such, it is crucial for you to understand the important tips you should follow to drive safely. Doing so will help you prevent accidents altogether while lowering your car insurance rates!
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