What if a Deputy Stops Your Vehicle?

Why Did You Stop Me? the first question a deputy usually hears

Moving Violations are the most common reasons a vehicle is stopped. Some examples include speeding offenses, failure to stop at a red light or a stop sign, failure to use a turn signal, or not having a child properly restrained. 

Registration or Equipment Violations are other reasons a vehicle may be stopped by an officer. There are hundreds of laws governing driving privileges. It is not uncommon for a driver to be in violation of a law without knowing it. This is why the deputy stopping you has the discretionary authority to issue a "Courtesy Warning or citation. 

Criminal Investigations often involve searching for a "get-away" car or other involved vehicle. Your vehicle may match the description of a vehicle connected with a crime or an alert deputy may stop your car to investigate.

Courtesy or Safety Concerns are other reasons an officer might stop your vehicle. For instance, your trunk may be open, something may be hanging from under your vehicle, or you may have left groceries on your roof. 

Keeping the Lines of Communication Open  steps to follow if you are stopped

Pull over to the right and stop your vehicle as far out of the lane of traffic as possible. Make sure you turn on your hazard flashers and motion to the deputy that you are going to comply.

Stay in your vehicle, and turn on the interior light. Good lighting assists good communication. Relax and remain in your vehicle. If you leave your vehicle you subject yourself and the deputy to the dangers of traffic. 

Deputies are trained to ask for identification first, and provide an explanation second. First, provide the proper documentation. Then, give the deputy a chance to explain the reason for which you were stopped. Providing the requested documentation will simplify and speed up the process. Remember, most of often the officer is uniform with a nametag displayed. You will have the advantage of knowing whom you are dealing. Extend the courtesy by providing the requested identification without argument. 

If you do not agree with the citation, or the deputy's demeanor, do not argue at the scene. All citizens have the right to question their citation before a judge. Nearly every law enforcement agency has an internal affairs system in place to investigate citizen's complaints. 

"The Way We Do the Things We Do" common questions about police procedures and their answers

Q. Why did the deputy sneak up along side of my car?

A. Deputies are trained to minimize their exposure to traffic and reduce the likelihood that they will be injured. This approach is for the deputy's safety.

Q. Why did the deputy ask for the identifications of the other occupants in the car?

A. Again , this is for the deputy's safety. It is important for the deputy to know who it is he or she is dealing with.

Q. If it is only a minor offense, why did two or three deputies show up. 

A. Deputies, in the vicinity, frequently back each other up without being requested. Again, this is for the deputies safety. 

Q. Why do deputies sit in the car for so long? What are they doing?

A. More than likely, the deputy is verifying your driving privileges and vehicle registration status through one of several computer systems. This occasionally takes a few minutes.

Q. Why do I have to sign the citation?

A. By signing, you are either agreeing to mail in the fine, or to appear in court at the prescribed time. Signing is not an admission of guilt.

Q. What should I do when I see an emergency vehicle approaching?

A. Slow down, pull as far to the right side as possible and come to a complete stop. Wait there until the emergency vehicle pulls in behind you or passes. you may then, safely return to traffic. 

Did You Know? some rules of the road

Carry Proper Identification 

When driving a motor vehicle, you must have in your possession: your valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration, and proof of financial responsibility. If you are stopped and do not have all of these items with you, a citation may be issued. 

It is the driver's (not the owner's) responsibility to be sure that the vehicle being driven is insured and that the proper documents are in the vehicle. 

It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that the person driving the vehicle possesses a valid driver's license.

Monitor Occupants

As the driver, you are responsible for the conduct of all the occupants of the vehicle. This covers such things as passengers throwing trash out of a window, hanging their arms or legs out of a window or acting in a disorderly manner. 

Ensure that all passengers are wearing their seatbelts, and that children are properly secured. If a deputy stops your vehicle, don't remove your seatbelt.

Signal Your Intentions

You must signal your intent to turn, or change lanes no less than 200 feet before performing the action. A vehicle traveling in a speed zone of at least 50-mph shall signal for no less than 300 feet before performing the action.