Traffic stop and driver conduct-- how should you behave?

8479 Views 30 Replies 13 Participants Last post by sfguard, Nov 6, 2010

NWGlocker

Discussion Starter · Nov 4, 2010

Question for LEO's all the people that carry. If you're pulled over by a LEO how should one behave? I've read a couple of suggestions but I'm wondering what the glock pro'ers think. Here's what I've heard/read:

-- Roll down all windows
-- Interior lights on if it's at night.
-- Hands stay on the steering wheel until asked for license/registration.
-- I realize it'll vary from state to state whether or not you're legally obligated to declare if you have a loaded firearm in the car. For me, when I'm asked by the LEO I would hand them my drivers license as well as my CCW license, then answer all questions he/she has while I keep my hands visible and on the wheel.

Does this seem reasonable so far?

Thanks in advance

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jlw

· #6 · Nov 4, 2010 (Edited)

Some states have license/permit status linked with the driver's license database, but not all states do. Likewise, some states require drivers to disclose if they are carrying, but not all have such a requirement.

My advice is to not make the weapon an issue unless it is going to be an issue.

Click here to see an article that I wrote on the subject. Please note that it is based on GA, and some of the laws in GA have changed since this was written.

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jlw

· #23 · Nov 5, 2010

Her's the thing on vehicle searches, or any searches for that matter, without a warrant or some sort of exigent search, they are completely voluntary. Repeat completely voluntary.

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jlw

· #26 · Nov 5, 2010

VolGrad said:
I think shows like COPS have really tainted people's view of how traffic stops go down. On the show almost every vehicle gets searched and it appears to be matter of fact that it should happen. The reality is on that show it probably should happen. Remember, you are watching the dramatic takes and not the routine stops. Who wants to watch the boring stuff where the driver doesn't give permission and no dope is found?

January will be 12 years for me, and I can count on one hand the total number of people that have denied consent to search or declined to talk after Miranda COMBINED on one hand and have a digit left over.

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jlw

· #28 · Nov 5, 2010

TheLaw said:
For future reference JL, I do not consent to any searches.

You don't count.

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jlw

· #30 · Nov 5, 2010

Bulldawg said:
I too would never consent to a search of my vehicle. However, I've been involved in a heated argument with a few LEOs I know who insist that if they pull you over for a traffic violation or a bulb being out on your vehicle, that is a violation of the law and therefore gives them reason to search your vehicle.

Is this correct? They insisted that if they "wanted" to search your vehicle, they'd search your vehicle.

No. A simple traffic or equipment violation does not grant legal authority to search a vehicle.

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