How To Correctly Deal With Being Pulled Over
A police officer may pull you over for a variety of traffic law violations when you are driving. You may have forgotten to use your blinker, been driving erratically or strangely, or perhaps, as is most common, been caught speeding. If you get pulled over, here's how to correctly deal with the situation.
Pull over and roll down both windows slightly
You don't know what side of the car the cop will approach, so roll down both windows a little bit so you can speak to the officer when they get to your car. If you don't have insurance or registration readily available, then let the officer know when they get to your vehicle that you have to reach into a glove compartment or other spot in your car to grab what you need.
Admit what you believe was wrong
Most police officers will ask you if you know why you're being pulled over. If you have a slight idea, indicate that maybe you do, without being too detailed. If you really don't know, then be honest. Your cop will tell you. Don't argue with the police officer but don't readily agree with them either: simply nod and listen.
Be polite
Depending on why you got pulled over, you may receive a warning or get a ticket. Some police officers may factor in the attitude of the driver as part of their reasoning for giving a ticket or not. Always be polite even if you feel the cop is being unfair. If you do get a ticket, you can dispute it in court on the assigned date. Don't argue the ticket with the police officer or you can risk getting arrested.
Pull out into traffic first
After you get pulled over, whether you got a warning or a ticket, the police officer will allow you to go about your day if you don't have a warrant out for your arrest or have committed any serious infractions. This means you can pull back out onto the road and drive away.
It's best to drive away first; the police officer likely has to file the remaining part of your pull-over case and may find it odd if you stick around. They may even come back to your car to ask why you haven't driven off. Use your blinker and pull out gently into traffic and put your traffic ticket somewhere you'll remember it, if you received one, so you don't forget to pay.