Nobody wants to get pulled over, even if it is a random stop at a check- point. When you see a police officer begins to pull you over, what you do and say can have a huge effect on whether you will spend the night in a cell or be off with a warning . Whether the traffic stop ends in a simple moving violation or an arrest for a more serious crime, your choices are critical.
Step One: Pull over safely and turn off your car engine.
Step Two: Put out any cigarette or gum your were chewing. First impressions matter.
Step Three: quickly roll down your window and place your hands on the steering wheel.
Step Four: A police officer who stops you for a traffic violation is normally not allowed to search your vehicle.
(Be careful.... what your body language says about you can tip off a police officer. An officer will watch for any sort of "furtive movement." A sudden lowering of one or both shoulders, for example, will tip the officer off that you’re attempting to hide something under the seat.)
Step Five: In California, an officer who stops you for an alleged traffic violation has the right to insist that you and your passengers get out of your car. So, ask for instruction on what to do if this happens to you.
Step Six: Don't be hostile. Hostility has led to many a problem with police officers. This includes even saying more than necessary.
Step Seven: Seek a lawyer if a traffic stop leads to serious accusations—like a charge of driving under the influence or possession of drugs.