There is something about those flashing lights in the rear-view mirror that gets our hearts racing every time. Being pulled over is always nerve-wracking, even when you know you’ve done nothing wrong.
Whether you are getting stopped for something as minor as a broken tail light or a more serious moving violation like speeding, here is a step-by-step guide on what to do when those flashing lights are actually directed at you:
- Stay calm, use your blinker, and pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.
- If safety is a concern, the officer may instruct you to exit the freeway or pull into a nearby parking lot. If that is the case, do as he/she says. And if it’s dark outside, it’s a good idea to pull over in a well lit area so that other drivers can see you.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Put your car in park and turn the music off. Roll down your window and keep your hands on the steering wheel. Stay inside your vehicle.
- Don’t make any sudden movements or act aggressively. The officer will take necessary measures to ensure you are not a threat.
- Be ready for the officer to ask for your drivers license and vehicle registration. It’s a good idea to keep these documents somewhere handy. You never know when you are going to need them.
- Never lie to an officer; they know more than you think.
- Always be polite and respectful—it’s called karma, people!
