Pull-over Etiquette

[Fuzzydice]

Hello!

Here’s the scene: My husband got pulled over for speeding the other day. I was the passenger. When he pulled over, I opened the glove compartment looking for the proof or insurance and registration paperwork. Hubby told me with some consternation not to rifle in the glove compartment because he (the policeman) would think it suspicious. My better half then turned on the dome light and placed his hands on the “11 and 1” position on the steering wheel. He said that’s what you’re supposed to do when pulled over and take the paper work out when he asks for it at the window. It turned out to be a civil exchange between us and the officer but it left me wondering why I never got that memo on “pull over etiquette”. I would much appreciate any input as to the protocol- what you should and shouldn’t do- when you get pulled over.

[cntryboy0531]

Honestly..

Turn on the interior lights, turn off the vehicle, keep your hands where we can see them and don't move unless we tell you to. Also, if you do have to reach for the glove box or anywhere where your hands are going to go where we can't see them, tell us before you do it.

Keep in mind, you may know you are not a threat to us, but to me, you are joe blow and for all I know, you could be a serial killer hell bent on not going to jail.

[pac201]

Your husband is right. Less furtive movements means that we don't have to wonder what you are looking for. In your case paperwork, but it happens at times bad guys are reaching for a gun.

You can give him an attaboy.

[Joeyd6]

You didn't get it because you never asked and never taught by mom/dad or drivers-ed or whoever you learned driving from. But your hubby should get a gold star for doing it right.

[retdetsgt]

Keep in mind, you may know you are not a threat to us, but to me, you are joe blow and for all I know, you could be a serial killer hell bent on not going to jail.

+1. You know who we are. Timothy McVeigh was arrrested on a routine traffic stop. He was originally stopped for no license plate, nothing more. The trooper had no idea that he was stopping the OKC bomber. And we know how that ended.

[tcop733]

Hands, hands, hands, keep those visible and all will be well.