Even if you know that you haven’t actually done anything wrong, and have a clean driving record, being pulled over by the police can be extremely disconcerting. Even so, there are a few simple things you can do to make things a little less stressful.
First, always make sure your driving documents (license, registration, auto insurance information) are either in your pocket or purse, or in the glovebox of your car, before you take even the shortest ride.
Then, follow these basic guidelines:
- Pull safely to the side of the road, by using your turn signals and slowing your speed. Move as far to the right-hand side of the road as you possibly can, so neither you nor the officer is in danger of being clipped by other cars. Then do the following:
- Turn off your radio.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Open the driver’s side window.
- Turn on your dome light, if it’s nighttime.
- If there are passengers in your car, ask them to remain quiet and calm.
- Place your hands on the steering wheel, and keep them there.
- Stay still, and try to remain calm. When police or highway patrol officers approach a vehicle they look for suspicious behavior or movement inside the car. Don’t spend time shuffling through your wallet, purse or glove compartment for the documentation they may need, because it may alarm the officer. Instead, wait til you’re asked for it.
- For your own safety, stay in your vehicle unless you are asked to get out.
- Be polite, patient and cooperative. You can explain the situation to the officer if you must, but the best thing to do if you truly disagree is to take the ticket and contest it in court. Accepting the ticket is not an admission of guilt.