If you get pulled over by police, remember that the officer is the one in control of the situation. But remember also that you have rights, and the officer cannot simply do anything he or she wants during the stop. Knowing your rights as a driver can help reduce the risk of being charged with crimes stemming from the traffic stop and can help you avoid being taken advantage of by cops.
Law enforcement in Indiana can make a traffic stop in these circumstances:
If you are stopped by law enforcement, an officer will likely approach your vehicle. They will be watching for sudden movements, so stay calm with your hands visible. Don’t exit the car unless the officer asks you to step out. The officer may ask questions or give you instructions. This is where it helps to understand your constitutional rights. You have the right to do the following:
In addition to knowing these rights, you should also know that drivers are legally obligated to cooperate with law enforcement to a reasonable extent. You must provide your license and insurance upon request. You must exit your vehicle if asked. Failure to do so is a crime. Further, do not argue with the officer or claim that the stop is illegal. Rather, allow the stop to unfold naturally. Your attorney can review the situation afterwards to determine if the officers acted unlawfully and can take appropriate legal action.
The Law Office of Weiss, Schmidgall and Hires, P.C. helps people who believe they were unlawfully stopped and then charged with a crime. Our Indiana criminal defense attorneys are here to protect your constitutional rights. Call our Merrillville office at 219-293-8988 or contact us online to get a free consultation with a lawyer today.