Perhaps you’re late for the millionth time to work, or perhaps your favorite song played on the radio and you lost sight of how fast you were driving. You may have assumed you were safe because you had never seen a police officer on that stretch of highway.
You hear sirens and see flashing lights behind you before you realize it. You’re going to be stopped. While no one appreciates being pulled over, there are a few basic things you can do to make it a bit more bearable. Check out our top advice about what to do if you’re pulled over. Remember that when you decide to sell your car, we can offer top dollar at Instant Cash Offer.
Always be courteous
Routine traffic stops can be the riskiest component of an officer’s employment from their perspective. Ask for permission to do things like pull your driver’s license out of your wallet or grab for your registration. Stay in the car and keep your hands on the steering wheel. If you’re pulled over at night, it’s also a good idea to switch off your engine, roll down your window, and turn on your dome lights. All of these small gestures will reassure the police that you aren’t attempting to be aggressive to him or her.
Be careful what you say
If you intend to contest the ticket, be careful what you say. Anything you say to the officer may be used against you in court, so admitting to speeding or any other traffic offense could jeopardize your case. If you’re nice, apologetic, and sincere, the officer may be more inclined to give you a warning.
If you have a firearm in your vehicle, inform the officer
Even if you have a concealed weapons permit, several states require you to notify a law enforcement officer if you are carrying a firearm. Even if it isn’t required in your state, merely letting the police know you have it could save you and the officer a lot of grief. You should also bring all of your permits. You must be a responsible gun owner if you wish to utilize your Second Amendment right.
Keep your hands at 10 and 2 at all times
Return your hands to the steering wheel once you’ve given the police your license and registration, as well as any other documents they may have requested. This keeps them visible to the officer while also demonstrating that you aren’t a threat.
Keep complaints for the judge
Don’t dispute about your ticket with the officer. Keep your winning argument for when you’re in front of a judge in court. If the officer does give you a citation, make sure you sign it. This isn’t an admission of guilt; it simply means you’ve been issued a ticket and have agreed to pay the fine or appear in court.
Take a deep breath in and out
To avoid any misunderstanding, ask the police if you’re free to leave after signing the citation. Take a big breath if they say yes. Organize your documents and return them to their rightful locations. Gather your thoughts, especially if you’re upset. Then, safely merge back into traffic by turning on your blinker.
If you are pulled over for having a light out, not having a muffler, or any other issue related to the age of your car, remember that you can simply sell your car with the help of Instant Cash Offer. Get answers to your common questions and then contact us for an instant quote.