It is unnerving to be pulled over on the road by a police officer. Often, you’re not sure what happened that led to you being pulled over. Be sure to know your rights and how you can say no when speaking to a police officer.
5 Things to Know When a Police Officer Pulls You Over
You can remain respectful and politely decline requests made by the officer. When you have the knowledge you need to protect yourself, you will feel empowered to stand up for your rights.
1. Share Essential Information, Nothing More: You can share your name as it is written on your license, address, phone number, and date of birth. If you are under 18, share your parent’s information. And then do not answer any further questions. There is no need to divulge anything else about yourself.
2. Do Not Guess Why They Pulled You Over: If they ask you, do you know why I pulled you over? Do not give them any confessions of a possible violation. If they ask how fast you were going, tell them the speed limit. If they tell you that they clocked you speeding, say that you didn’t realize and are sorry.
3. Do Not Give Permission to Search Your Property: An officer may ask if they can search your vehicle. Do not say yes. If you give them permission, they don’t have to present a probable cause in court. Tell them no, you do not feel comfortable with them searching your property.
4. You Have the Right to Remain Silent: Remember, you do not have to answer any of the officer's questions. You always have a right to remain silent, and the officer must read you those Miranda rights if they choose to arrest you.
5. Ask to Speak to a Lawyer: When it comes to any further questions beyond the basics, ask to speak to a lawyer. You can say it again and again, no matter how many times they ask you something. Ask to speak to a lawyer.
Even if you expect the best of a traffic stop situation, it can escalate into something more. It won’t hurt to be knowledgeable about what and what not to say to a police officer.
Turn to a Lawyer for Help
You can quickly feel out of control when getting pulled over. Let Miles & Hatcher, LLP, help you during these stressful times. If you would like to learn more about your rights regarding interacting with a police officer, give us a call. You can schedule a free consultation by calling (909) 481-4080.
Comments