Traffic Stops

You can refuse a vehicle search. Police need a warrant or probable cause to search your car.

Pull over calmly and keep your hands visible. How you behave in the first seconds sets the tone.

You must show your license, registration, and insurance. You do not have to answer other questions.

You have the right to remain silent. Tell the officer aloud that you wish to remain silent.

Passengers generally can remain silent and ask if they are free to leave.

If an officer orders you to step out of the vehicle, you legally must comply for officer safety.

Police can only pat you down if they reasonably suspect you are armed and dangerous.

You have a First Amendment right to record police in public as long as you do not physically interfere.

Ask 'Am I free to go?' If they say yes, leave calmly. If no, you are being detained.

DUI checkpoints are legal, but drug checkpoints are unconstitutional. You can usually remain silent.

Police cannot extend a traffic stop just to wait for a drug dog to arrive without reasonable suspicion.

Police can seize evidence they can see from outside the car. Do not leave contraband in plain sight.

If police have a warrant, you must let them search, but you should read it to check the scope.

Signing a ticket is not an admission of guilt. It is just a promise to appear in court.

Never physically resist a stop or arrest, even if it is unlawful. Fight it in court, not on the street.

In some states, you must provide your name if detained. Know your specific state laws.

If you are carrying a weapon, some states require you to inform the officer immediately.

Refusing a breathalyzer often results in automatic license suspension due to 'implied consent' laws.

If rights were violated, get the officer's badge number and file a written complaint later.

Police generally need a warrant to search the contents of your cell phone, even if you are arrested.