Flashing police car lights are the last things that a driver wants to see in their rearview mirror. If you are pulled over and charged with an offense, it’s also a good idea to speak with an attorney after getting pulled over to continue handling the situation efficiently. Using the guide below, review what to do if you get pulled over by a police officer to keep the interaction as stress-free as possible.

How to Handle Getting Pulled Over By a Police Officer

Pulling Over & The Immediate Aftermath

Turn off your vehicle, roll down your window all the way, and put your hands on your steering wheel, especially if it’s nighttime, and the officer cannot clearly see into your vehicle. Ask any passengers to remain silent with their hands visible to keep the interaction between you and the cop courteous. Also, take off your sunglasses, if applicable, maintain eye contact with the officer, and use “sir” or “ma’am” when providing short responses. All of these actions show that you are not hiding weapons, attempting to drive away, or doing anything else that can affect the officer’s safety.

Stay calm and polite instead of being rude or aggressive. While having an “attitude” with an officer is not unlawful, it will not shorten the interaction. If you disagree with the officer’s report, give a detailed account to your attorney who will use the information in court.

Breathalyzers & Vehicle Searches

Do what the officer asks, including taking a breathalyzer if you appear intoxicated, and testing is allowed by state law. If you live in Ohio, you must submit to a breathalyzer if you are lawfully arrested under the premise of implied consent, or consenting to sobriety tests upon obtaining your driver’s license. Refusing to take a breathalyzer or a related test such as a blood or urine test in Ohio will result in a minimum six-day jail sentence or three days in jail, a fine, and a 72-hour driver intervention program if you have previous convictions.

While you must submit to testing in light of your state’s laws, you can refuse a vehicle search if the officer does not have a warrant, and you have not been arrested. Vehicle searches are legal only if you consent, you get arrested, or the officer has reason to believe your car contains weapons or incriminating evidence such as illegal substances. 

If you need a DUI attorney or require legal counsel for another traffic stop issue, contact Pater, Pater & Halverson. Offering a combined 90 years of experience, these attorneys represent drivers throughout Hamilton, OH, and the surrounding areas, providing personal injury, wrongful death, and car accident services, among others. Call (513) 867-1411 today to schedule a consultation or learn more about practice areas online. Like their Facebook page for DUI checkpoint information and other driving tips.