Tips For Teenage Drivers When It Comes To Dealing With The Police During A Stop

Regardless of your age, it is scary to get pulled over by the police. No driver wants to see the red and blue lights in their rearview mirror. But the reality is that, as a driver, you cannot escape having an interaction with the police.

If you are a teenage driver who just started driving or who’s been driving for a while and has still not been stopped by the police, it is crucial that you know how to conduct yourself when the police stop you because sooner or later, you will have an interaction with the police. The following are some tips for teenage drivers when it comes to dealing with the police during a stop.

Tip #1: Comply With the Police

When you receive a direct order from a law enforcement officer, the best thing you can do is comply. For example, if you are stopped and asked to show your license and registration, ensure you do so without arguing with the officer. If asked to step out of the vehicle, make sure you do so.

Some people assume that the police violate your rights when they ask you to step out of the car. But this is not true. You are required to step out of the car if asked to do so, and refusing to comply can result in an arrest.

Tip #2: Respect the Police

When a police officer stops you and approaches your car, do not insult them. Do not talk back to them, and most importantly, do not try to bribe a police officer.

Note: Not only is it disrespectful to try and bribe an officer of the law, but doing so can result in you facing bribery charges.

Tip #3: Record if You Are Able

If you can, it is advisable that you record your interaction with police after they stop you. Recording your interaction with the police offers several advantages. For example, if an officer knows they are being recorded, they might find it hard to conduct an unlawful search and seizure.

That said, recording law enforcement officers during traffic stops can be challenging. Also, it might come off as disrespectful if you start recording an officer as soon as they stop you.

Tip #4: Stay Silent or Respond to Questions the Way You Are Supposed To

Lastly, after a police officer pulls you over, it is advisable that you avoid answering questions. However, this can be terrifying or impossible for some people. Because of this, let’s discuss how you should respond to some common police questions.

• Where are you going/coming from? Give short but direct answers. For example, say, “I am going home from a friend’s house.”
• Do you know why I stopped you? If, for instance, you are pulled over for a minor infraction, and the officer asks you this question, you can be honest. However, do not overshare. For example, you can say, “I guess I was going a bit fast,” instead of “I was going over 30 miles over the speed limit.”

In conclusion, it is vital to note that the police do not have the right to search your car without your consent unless they have a warrant or evidence of criminal activity is in plain view.

Contact Us for Guidance

If you need more information on how to deal with the police should you be pulled over, contact NYC criminal defense lawyer Mark I. Cohen at 212-732-0002.