How to conduct yourself during a traffic stop

Guest Contributor: John Shallenberger,
Deputy Sheriff at Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office

Being pulled over by an officer can be scary – especially for new drivers who don’t know how to handle the situation. It’s important that new drivers learn what is expected when being stopped by an officer.

If you are involved in a traffic stop, your safety and the safety of the officer are of utmost importance. Please keep the following things in mind:

Slowly pull over to a safe area

Pull your vehicle over as soon as it is safe and stay inside with your hands on the steering wheel.

If you are being pulled over, but you are uncomfortable because you do not recognize the squad car, call 911 and advise them of the situation. It’s also a good idea to turn on your dome light so that the officer can see what you are doing in the vehicle. Drive at a slow speed until 911 is able to tell you whether or not it is a real traffic stop and safe to pull over.

Follow the directions of the officer

The officer will ask to see your drivers license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. You must produce these items for inspection. Please inform the officer when retrieving documentation before moving your hands off of the steering wheel.

Follow the verbal directions of the officer and answer truthfully. This will ensure the traffic stop will be as brief as possible and you will be able to go on with your day. Be aware that most problems happen because of noncompliance. The side of the road is not the place to debate with the officer. If you feel that you have been wronged, you will have the opportunity to present your side in court.

Mutual respect

Officers should be courteous and respectful, striving for public safety, education and compliance with the law. Most violations can be addressed with a warning if your actions help facilitate a safe and mutually respectful encounter.

Safety

Please remember, your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road is foremost in the mind of an officer conducting a traffic stop.