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ToggleThe strobing red and blue lights of a police siren can make anyone nervous. As soon as these lights start to reflect on your rear-view mirror, your mind may race, and you might be afraid of what might happen next.
Interacting with the police can be daunting. Knowing your rights and duties during a traffic stop can help you handle the situation better.
You could be in trouble
Refusing to step out when a cop asks can lead to some serious problems. You might face:
- Charges for failure to obey a police officer or even resisting arrest
- Making the cops more suspicious
- Getting pulled out of your car by force
- Turning a simple stop into a bigger issue
Ultimately, it may be smarter to cooperate with the police during a traffic stop. Doing so can go a long way.
How to deal with authorities
Staying calm and respectful can make a big difference when dealing with cops. Try these tips if the police pull you over:
- Keep your hands where the cop can see them
- Tell the cop before you reach for anything
- Ask politely if you are free to go or if you are being detained
- If told to get out, move slowly and carefully
Following these steps can help keep both you and the cop safer during the stop. Furthermore, Arizona state laws say you must show your driver’s license when a cop pulls you over. It is one of the first things you should do during a traffic stop.
During a traffic stop, it may be best to do what the cop asks especially if they ask you to step out of your vehicle to avoid legal trouble. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can give you the tools needed to handle traffic stops more confidently and safely.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
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Practice areas
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Tempe
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Lake Havasu City
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Apache Junction
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Parker