No matter what the situation, getting pulled over by a police officer can be an alarming and stressful situation. While many of these stops will result in a warning or a traffic ticket, there is always a risk that the matter may escalate, putting you in possible danger of severe consequences. Fortunately, you do have rights that can protect you during these incidents. To help you protect yourself within the confines of the law, here are seven important rights you have when being pulled over.

7 Rights You Have When Police Pull You Over

1. To Know Why

From expired tags to speeding, there are many reasons why police can pull you over. However, they must have a reason. If they do not state why you are being stopped, you have the right to ask and receive an answer.

2. To Stay in the Car

In most cases, it’s best to get out of the car upon an officer’s request. Usually, this measure is taken to ensure you’re not concealing a weapon or driving drunk. However, if you prefer to stay seated, you have the right to.

3. To Remain Silent

You can express this right to remain silent whether or not you’ve been arrested. Doing so may help prevent you from incriminating yourself.

4. To Record

Filming an interaction with law enforcement is legal. While it’s best to keep the camera out of the way, getting footage may prove useful in court if you feel that the situation may be misinterpreted.

5. To Refuse a Warrantless Search

Police officers can search your car if they have a weapon, you’re actively trying to destroy evidence, or if there is something suspicious in plain sight. They cannot usually search if the stop is for a routine traffic ticket. If these circumstances do not apply, you do not have to comply with the search.

6. To Refuse a Breathalyzer

North Carolina is an implied consent state, which means that having a driver’s license is essentially an agreement to consent to a breathalyzer. In most cases, it may be better to just comply at the moment. However, you still have the right to refuse. If you do, your license will likely be suspended.

7. To Be Appointed a Lawyer

If a stop results in something greater than a traffic ticket, you may be arrested by the police. If this happens, you have the right to be appointed an attorney if you cannot afford one.

Whether you need to fight a traffic ticket or are facing a more serious matter of criminal law, Moore Law Trial Lawyers will guide you through the legal process with confidence. Based in Rocky Mount, NC, this firm offers up over 20 years’ of experience in various areas of the law—including drug charges, and DWIs. In addition to protecting your rights, these attorneys are recognized for providing personalized support and affordable fees. To learn more about their criminal defense capabilities, visit this firm online or call (252) 443-2468.