Don’t know what your rights are when you get pulled over? Read this blog.
Getting pulled over is something that many of us will experience at one point or another. However, more often than not, people are unprepared for when it does happen. In order to help you better handle this situation, we at Tolbert Beadle have identified and answered a few of the most common questions/misconceptions people have on the subject.
What You Do and Don’t Have to Say
During a traffic stop there are a few things you are required to do when asked, such as providing your license, registration, insurance and name. Similarly, depending on what state you reside in, you are required to answer a few basic identifying questions – like what your address is. However, you aren’t required to say anything more. According to Time Inc. Network, you can simply answer with “I choose not to answer that question.”
You Don’t Have to Consent to a Search
This is true of both your person and your car. Oftentimes, police officers will casually ask to take a look inside your car. If this happens, you don’t have to consent to it – not without probable cause, at least. If you’ve been placed under arrest, however, the police officer does have the right to search you, and sometimes your vehicle as well, regardless of whether or not you give permission.
You Have the Right to Ask for an Attorney
If you are experiencing a routine traffic stop and you haven’t been detained, you DO NOT have the right to ask for an attorney. However, if you are being detained, you can, and should, ask for an attorney immediately.
Talking to the Officer
What you definitely don’t want to do is to get hostile, or say more than you have to (as we briefly discussed above). Generally speaking, you want to let the officer do most of the talking. Outside of that, respond where appropriate and be polite. Your kindness will go further than you think (we at Tolbert Beadle can attest to that).
Talking to a Lawyer
For simple traffic violations, you often don’t need the assistance of a lawyer. However, if you are charged for something more serious, we at Tolbert Beadle recommend the services of a lawyer.
Tolbert Beadle Overview
Getting pulled over can be an intimidating thing to experience. However, by following guidelines outlined by our law firm above, you should better be able to properly handle the situation.
Continue to browse our website for more information on getting pulled over, or contact a talented auto accident lawyer or personal injury lawyer at Tolbert Beadle to discuss all things law. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you have!
