4 Tips To Prevent Problems When Getting Pulled Over
Although getting pulled over is never fun, there are things that you can do to improve the situation. By respecting the law and the police officer, you can help prevent problems and can help ensure that the process goes as smoothly and well as possible for everyone who is involved. Next time that you get pulled over, remember these four tips for best results.
1. Acknowledge the Officer Immediately
When you see the officer's flashing lights, make sure that you acknowledge him or her as soon as possible. If you don't, the cop could think that you are going to try to escape. If you are unable to pull over right away -- such as if you want to pull into a safer area or if there is a lot of traffic in the way -- then you should at least acknowledge his or her presence. Slow down a little bit, and turn your hazard lights on until you are able to stop.
2. Roll Your Windows Down
Police officers are often put in scary predicaments because they don't know what they are walking up on after pulling someone over. You can make the officer feel more comfortable by rolling all of your windows down before the officer approaches your vehicle. If he or she feels more at ease, then there will probably be less tension during your meeting.
3. Keep Your Hands on the Steering Wheel
After rolling your windows down, put your hands back on the steering wheel. Both hands should be completely visible. This will help the police officer see that you aren't trying to pull a weapon or otherwise pose a threat.
4. Abide by the Officer's Requests
Unless the officer asks you to do something illegal, it is generally best to abide by his or her requests. If you hesitate to put your hands up after being asked to do so, for example, the officer might think that you are thinking about pulling out a weapon. If you don't step out of the car when you are asked, the officer might say that you are resisting orders. Although it might not be fun, it's generally best to cooperate with these orders. If you feel that the police officer asks you to do something that is out of line, you can hire a lawyer from a firm like Edward Galang Law or make a formal complaint with the police department later.
Getting pulled over isn't fun for you, and believe it or not, it often isn't fun for the officer, either. Luckily, if you follow these four tips, you should be able to help prevent any major problems when you get pulled over.
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