Traffic Stops: Essential Tips for Arizona Drivers
Tricks to Know When You Get Pulled Over
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Tricks To Know When You Get Pulled Over
What You Should Do If You Are Pulled Over By the Police
If you are pulled over by law enforcement, remain calm.
Pull Over Safely – As soon as you notice the flashing blue and red lights in your rear-view mirror, it’s crucial to begin searching for a safe location to pull over. The initial moments of a traffic stop are crucial, as they can shape the officer’s perception of you. You want to convey cooperation and compliance, so it’s essential not to give the impression—even momentarily—that you’re unwilling to stop.
Remain Calmly Seated In Your Car – After pulling over, it’s important to remain in your vehicle, roll down the window, and keep your eyes focused on the road ahead. While you may gather your license, insurance, and registration if readily accessible, avoid making sudden movements that could be misinterpreted. If you need to retrieve your documents from a glove compartment or elsewhere, it’s best to wait until the officer approaches your window. Additionally, keep your hands visible on the steering wheel to ensure the officer’s comfort and safety.
Be Polite – Show courtesy and respect towards the police officer, refraining from arguments and striving to comply with their basic requests to the best of your ability.
Know Your Rights – Be aware of your rights during a traffic stop. While you must provide the officer with your name, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of car insurance, you have the right to remain silent and are not obligated to answer any further questions. Don’t try to make small talk or engage the officer. Additionally, if you have been pulled over on a DUI suspicion you have the right to refuse field sobriety tests. However, you are required to submit to a blood test. Refusing to take a blood test can lead to severe repercussions. Even if you are ultimately acquitted at trial, the DMV can suspend your license for one year if you refuse to undergo a blood test.
Get Out of Car ONLY If Asked – If requested, exit your vehicle and close the door behind you. Ensure your hands remain visible at all times. Upon exiting the vehicle, the officer may conduct a pat-down search for weapons if they have a reasonable suspicion that you may be armed or pose a threat.
Do Not Consent to a Vehicle Search – If the officer requests to search your car, politely decline. You are not obligated to consent to a search of the vehicle, your purse, backpack, etc., and granting permission may forfeit your right to contest the traffic stop in court. However, if the officer has probable cause, they can conduct a search without your consent. Say No.
In certain situations, an arrest may be inevitable despite your compliance. Just remain silent and call a lawyer. In such cases, it’s advisable to contact a seasoned DUI/Criminal Defense Lawyer to assess your case and identify potential defenses. Most DUI/Criminal cases offer multiple defense strategies; the key is determining the most effective approach for your circumstances.
Take the Ticket – If the officer writes you a ticket (a traffic citation), sign it. Don’t try to fight the ticket there on the street with the officer.