A roadside stop can be a nerve-wracking experience. No matter how nervous you feel, the moment demands composure and respect.
Knowing the proper way to interface with police officers during stops helps ensure that these situations are safe from start to finish.
Remain calm
As you pull over, take a deep breath. Keep your hands on the steering wheel unless and until you receive instructions to do otherwise. Besides showing that you are not holding a weapon, this will outwardly demonstrate your willingness to cooperate. Maintaining a tranquil demeanor sets the stage for a courteous exchange and helps law enforcement officials stay at ease.
Follow instructions
Listen carefully to the officer’s requests and obey them promptly. Whether rolling down the window, turning off the engine or providing identification is what they desire, compliance demonstrates respect for the law and can defuse tension.
Communicate clearly
Speak in a clear, audible manner. Answer questions directly, but do not say any more than necessary. Providing concise, direct responses helps the officer understand your situation more easily and often results in a quicker stop.
Avoid confrontation
During the pullover, abstain from using aggressive language or engaging in untoward behavior. Even if you disagree with what is happening, keep your concerns to yourself. Take note of the officer’s name and badge number, and use this information to file an official complaint with the police department.
The wrong decisions can cause a traffic stop to go badly, even triggering an arrest. Maintaining an agreeable demeanor will help avoid such an event and increase your odds of a smooth experience.