Have you ever been pulled over by a police officer or highway patrol? If the answer is yes, then you know the feeling you get when you see flashing red lights in your rear view mirror.

It's an instant sick feeling. You wish you could crawl under a rock so you can get away from this.

But, there's no hiding. They've got you and it's time to face the music and comply with the law.

There are specific things that you should do as well as not do once you are in this situation. Before you panic, cry or get belligerent, know some very important things.
  • When you see the flashing lights, follow the police officer's instructions. Slow down, use your turn signal and pull your vehicle well off to the side of the road.
  • Stay in your vehicle and turn off the engine and radio.
  • Keep your seat belt fastened until the officer has seen you wearing it.
  • Take a deep breath and don't panic. Remain calm while the officer explains why you were stopped.
  • If you are stopped at night, turn on your interior lights or dome light.
  • Be on your best behavior, and always be polite to the police officer. Don't be argumentative.
  • Cooperate with the police. It could make all the difference between a ticket and a warning.
  • Be honest with the officer. If you really didn't see the stop sign or were unaware of the speed limit, let the officer know.
  • Keep your hands in plain view of the officer. Avoid reaching or making sudden movements. Never reach under your seat.
  • Avoid provoking the officer or showing off in front of other occupants.
  • Always carry proper identification: a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration and current proof of insurance. Do not retrieve or reach for documentation until instructed by the police officer to do so.
  • If you are asked to exit the vehicle, do it slowly.
  • If you receive a traffic citation or ticket, accept it calmly. Contest the traffic citation in a court of law.

Sources: Radio Online, AAA

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