Making traffic stops are a part of a law enforcement officers daily duties. However for citizens they are a rare (hopefully) and stressful experience. Police officers never know what we will encounter on traffic stops. A proper understanding of how to act or respond on a traffic stop is key to good communication. We would like to share some tips on how to respond during a traffic stop to make the encounter less stressful for all involved.
When an emergency vehicle is pulling you over, pull over to the right side of the road. You may activate your turn signal or emergency flashers to look for a safe spot to stop. This also alerts the officer of your intention to stop.
Place your vehicle in park, turn off the radio, roll down the window all the way and give the officer your attention to ensure communication is both effective and efficient. Please remain in your vehicle with your hands visible on the steering wheel until you are given direction by the officer. Normally the officer will approach on the driver’s side, but for safety reasons sometimes the officer will approach on the passenger side. Don’t be alarmed if this occurs. Officer safety is the highest priority when conducting traffic stops and the officer is attempting to approach in the safest manner possible.
If the traffic stop is at night, please turn on your interior light so the officer can see who is inside the vehicle. Don’t make any sudden movements or rummage through your belongings looking for your wallet until you are asked for documentation. Do not reach for anything anywhere! Remember that law enforcement officers are killed every year while conducting routine traffic stops so it’s understandable that an officer may treat you with suspicion.
Upon the request of the officer, disclose if you have concealed carry permit and have weapon in the vehicle. This also applies to any passengers in the vehicle.
Please be courteous with the officer even if you disagree with reason for the traffic enforcement decision. Contesting the reason for the stop should occur in the court of law and not on the side of the street.
If you observe a traffic stop that does not involve you, please do not approach the officer as they are conducting the traffic stop. Illinois has “Scott’s Law” or the “Move Over” Law. This mandates that when approaching a police or other emergency vehicle stopped along the roadway, you must reduce your speed, change lanes if possible and proceed with due caution.
Remember, there is no such thing as a routine traffic stop. If you respond appropriately to the officer’s directions, are cooperative and do not give any cause for alarm, the officer will extend you the same respect.
Until next month, Stay Aware & Stay Safe.
