3 Things 2 Know When The Lights Start To Flash Red

Article published by: hailmaryjane.com

Flashing red and blue lights in your rear view mirror. Damn. You must stop; hopefully you will be able to present a valid driver’s license when requested.  You probably will have to prove your car is insured, too.  It’s a traffic stop. Your job is to keep it just that. But Officer Friendly may have other ideas. When the law wants to ask you a question, remember:
1. You don’t have to answer questions for the police officer. Stay polite but simply say you choose to remain silent AFTER the officer starts asking questions. Keep your nervous mouth shut. The officer may try the “I am annoyed” tactic to get you to break. Fear is a great technique. This is your test — can you stay calm when someone is pushing your buttons trying to get you to be stupid? You have the right to shut up, so do so.

2. Do not consent to a search of your car. If you are under arrest the cop gets to search your car. If the cop thinks he has probable cause he can already go ahead and search. In our case, Officer Friendly is asking permission so he can, later, say to a judge, “The defendant consented to the search, Your Honor.” If asked to give consent to a search of your property, say “no.” Now if Officer Friendly continues his search he cannot use you as his excuse. Our imaginary officer is pissed. Take a deep breath and imagine yourself being polite.

3. Saying “no” does not give or create probable cause (P/C is a huge legal threshold on what cops can do) for the police officer. Even if the officer says it does or will, it won’t.

How well do you know your rights? Learn more HERE.

3 Things 2 Know When The Lights Start To Flash Red