Being stopped by a police officer can be a stressful experience, even if you have nothing to hide and have done nothing wrong.  If you drive, it is likely that you will be stopped at least once.  It is important to remember that you have rights during a traffic stop.

Generally, if you are polite and respectful the officer will be also.  Once you have safely pulled to the side of the road, turn off the engine.  Keep your hands visible, by placing them on the upper part of the steering wheel.  If necessary keep items out of plain view that might draw more questions.  These include:  prescription bottles, medicine, rolling papers, scales, baggies, weapons/knifes.

If the officer suspects you have been drinking, field sobriety tests are often conducted.  You do not have to participate in these tests!  These tests typically are: one-leg stand, walk and turn, count backwards, recite the all or portions of the alphabet.  If you are arrested for driving under the influence, these test results may hurt any defense to your case.

If you are pulled over while driving, you must produce a valid drivers license, registration and proof of insurance.  I recommend you keep the current registration and proof of insurance in an un-sealed envelope in the glove box.  You want to easily produce these documents upon request.  The shorter duration the traffic stop, the better!

Answer only the question that is being asked.  Do not lie to the officer, but do not volunteer unnecessary information.  You do not have to answer questions that will incriminate yourself.  For example, if an officer asks, “Do you know how fast you were driving?”  And the truthful answer is 110 MPH, you can simply answer, “Respectfully, officer I do not have to answer that question.”  An apology can be as damaging as an admission.

Always remember that you have rights.  If you have been issued a citation or arrested, consult with an attorney regarding the specific facts of your case as soon as possible. 

DISCLAIMER:  This material is for information purposes only and is not legal advice.  You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.  Use of and access to this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.