In the journey of driving, there might come a day where the policemen will ask you to pull over. Though you might not be guilty or may have all the documents with you, you still have to listen to them because of traffic laws and rules. So, what should you do in such a situation? Don’t worry, we have got your back. Here are a few tips that might come in handy the next time you get pulled over by the police.
Find a safe spot.
Since the police ask you to pull over while you’re still driving, don’t panic and accelerate. Instead, check the rearview mirrors, and see if there are any other vehicles behind you. Look for a safe spot, more like a parking lot or a well-lit wide shoulder of the road. If you are on a road with heavy traffic, it’s completely fine to drive an extra kilometre to find a safe spot.
Slow down, stop and signal.
As a good driver, you should always slow down before you brake. Sudden brakes can cause damage to you and your car as well. Also, signalling before the halt or changing the lane is a sign of a good driver. So, don’t forget to follow the rules. It will also inform the officer that you intend to stop and not run away.
Keep calm and roll the window down.
Now is the time to face the officer, so do not panic, keep your calm and roll down the driver’s window. If it’s night time, turn on the interior lights, so that it is easy for him to see you. Do not reach out for things from under your seat or any other seat.
If in parked mode, turn off the ignition.
Now that your car is in park mode, turn it off, and wait for the instructions from the officer. Do not let your actions make you feel guilty later. Keep your hands on the steering, and be patient. Do not come out of the vehicle as it can be a suspicious activity for the officer.
Stay normal and wait for the instructions.
When the officer leans on your window, do not speak before he or she does. Let them take the first move. Usually, they will ask you for the driving license and registration. Give it to them, and get back on the steering wheel.
Be a good civilian.
If any ticket has been raised against you, do not get aggressive with the officer. Instead, wait for the right moment and time. If you are not guilty, you will be given a chance to speak at the court, so keep yourself calm. If there any questions from the officer, answer them honestly.
If any, sign the citation.
If the police officer gives you a citation, you need to sign it. Also, remember that signing a citation is not a sign that you are guilty. It’s just for the record that you have received the citation. You can either pay the fine, or fight for it in the court. In cases where you think you have wrongly given a ticket or bullied for the same, contact an attorney or reach out to the court.
Though these incidences are rare, you must be well-prepared beforehand. Defensive Driving School gives training on every traffic laws in their driving lessons, so, you are not hand-cuffed while you drive.