A law enforcement officer stops your vehicle for a suspected traffic violation or other reason.
1.Pull over safely and promptly to the right side of the road
2.Turn off the engine, turn on interior lights if it is dark
3.Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel
4.When asked, calmly provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance
5.If reaching for documents, tell the officer first: "My registration is in the glove box — I am reaching for it now"
6.You have the right to remain silent beyond identifying yourself — you do not have to answer questions about where you are going, where you came from, or whether you have been drinking
7.If asked to consent to a search, clearly say: "I do not consent to a search"
8.If asked to step out of the vehicle, you must comply — but you do not have to consent to a search
9.Remain calm and polite throughout, even if you believe the stop is unlawful — challenge it in court, not on the street
Your Rights
✓Right to remain silent — you must identify yourself in most states, but beyond that you can invoke your right to silence
✓Right to refuse consent to a search of your vehicle
✓Right to record the encounter in public
✓Right to ask "Am I free to go?" — if detained, ask why
✓Right to an attorney if you are arrested
Key Phrases to Use
"I do not consent to a search."
"Am I free to go?"
"I am invoking my right to remain silent."
"I would like to speak to an attorney."
"I am recording this encounter for my protection."
What Officers Cannot Do
Search your vehicle without probable cause or your consent
Detain you indefinitely without reasonable suspicion or probable cause
Search based solely on your refusal to consent
Use excessive force
Demand you unlock your phone
Extend the stop unreasonably beyond the traffic violation purpose (Rodriguez v. United States)