Being stopped by New Jersey police for any reason can be a scary and stressful situation. However, how you act will often greatly determine the outcome of your traffic stop. If you’re looking to get the interaction over with, then becoming angry and confrontational is not the way to go about things. What should you do or not do? Read on to learn a few of the scenarios that can either make your stop quick or prolong the experience.
Don’t self-incriminate
There’s a reason why the first thing a police officer asks is “Do you know why I stopped you?” Often, the reason behind this is because they want to make their job easier, and there is no better way of doing that than by allowing you to incriminate yourself. No matter the type of traffic violation you think you made, the answer to that question should always be a no. Let them explain to you what they think you did.
Don’t refuse personal documents
Although you do have the right to remain silent, you don’t have the right to refuse personal documents such as your insurance papers. Even if you did nothing wrong, going this route will only prolong the traffic stop and make the situation worse.
Stop your car ASAP
The moment when those flashing lights hit your rear-view mirror can truly get the blood pumping. Relax, breathe and begin to pull over toward the safest part of the road. Do not call parents, children or your attorney. Failure to stop can add to the charges filed against you.
If you’ve been recently stopped for a traffic violation, you may want to consult a professional legal team in your area. A traffic violation defense attorney may help you with the next steps.