Almost every driver sees red-and-blue lights flashing in their rearview windows at some point. Unfortunately, common mistakes can cause you to give up your rights and may even lead to an arrest. The following are a few tips that can avoid common pitfalls if you're pulled over for a traffic law violation.

Do:

Pull over as soon as you can do so safely.

As soon as you see the police behind you with flashing lights, it's best to turn on your hazard lights and start looking for a safe place to pull over. If you’re on a busy road, turning down a side street or into a parking lot increases safety for you and the police officer.

Roll your window down, turn off the car, and put your hands on the steering wheel.

Police officers are trained to be wary of drivers at traffic stops, so make yourself look as non-threatening as possible. Rolling down your window and making your hands visible will help put the officers at ease as they approach the car.

Don’t:

Answer questions.

While it’s important to be courteous and respectful any time you’re interacting with the police, you have the right to remain silent. You are legally required to identify yourself, but don’t have to give any information about where you’re going or where you’ve been. Officers may ask questions intended to sound like a conversation, but their interactions are designed to collect information to justify a search.

Consent to a search.

The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure. To search your vehicle, officers must either have probable cause or the permission of the driver.

If officers are asking to search your car, that means they don’t have a legally valid reason to conduct a search. In this situation, you have the right to refuse consent.

If you've been pulled over and issued a ticket for a traffic law violation, turn to Gary L Morris, Attorney At Law, for help. With over 40 years’ experience in traffic law and a reputation throughout Peoria, IL, he'll ensure your rights are protected. He defends drivers pulled over for various offenses and has the expertise to achieve the best possible results. Visit the website for details on his traffic law services, or call (309) 676-1594 to schedule a consultation.