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Police traffic stop

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If you are stopped by police while driving, stay calm and keep your movements visible.

1. Stay calm.

Send to family
  1. 1
    Pull over safely

    Use your turn signal and pull over to a safe spot.

  2. 2
    Keep your hands visible

    Place your hands on the steering wheel. Move slowly.

  3. 3
    Provide required documents

    If you are driving, you generally must show license, registration, and insurance when asked.

  4. 4
    You may ask if you are free to leave

    If they say yes, you may calmly leave.

    What you may say
    Show transcript

    Officer, am I free to go?

    “Officer, am I free to go?”

  5. 5
    You may remain silent

    You generally do not have to answer questions beyond identifying yourself when required.

    What you may say
    Show transcript

    I choose to remain silent.

    “I choose to remain silent.”

  6. 6
    Do not consent to searches

    You may say you do not consent. Do not physically resist.

    What you may say
    Show transcript

    I do not consent to a search.

    “I do not consent to a search.”

    What not to do
    Do not argue, run, or touch the officer.
Make a family emergency plan
Call a lawyer

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