Safe in 60: What Police Hope You Do During a Traffic Stop

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Getting pulled over by a police officer can be a stressful experience, for you and the officer.

Traffic stops are the most dangerous things officers do. More officers are killed and assaulted on traffic stops than any other event. Here’s what you should do if you’re stopped by police to keep you, other motorists and the officer safe.

If you get stopped by an officer, the first thing you should do is signal, safely pull to the right and stop. Remember – always pull to the right, unless directed otherwise by the officer.

Next, roll down your window, turn down the radio and put your hands where they are visible to the officer, like on top of the steering wheel. Never get out of your car unless instructed by the officer.

Don’t start reaching for your license and registration in the glove box, center console or behind seats until asked by the officer.

If it is nighttime, turn on your interior lights to make the inside of your vehicle more visible.

If you have a concealed weapon carry permit, let the officer know.

And if you are a passenger, keep your hands in clear view and don’t become involved.

Don’t be alarmed if more officers arrive on scene. It is routine for police to assist, because it is dangerous for an officer to be alone on a stop.

Remember officers are trained to take extra precautions for their safety. While an officer may seem a little bit defensive at first, with your cooperation, they’ll likely warm up.

During the traffic stop, this is what you can expect from the officer:

• They will ask you for your license and registration.
• They will tell you why they stopped you.

If you have a complaint, or don’t agree with the traffic violation, don’t argue it during the stop. Discuss it later with the law enforcement agency, an attorney or the judge.