Pulled over in Virginia? Know these tips and tricks



Posted: Sunday, April 11, 2010

by James Parrish
Parrish Law Firm, PLLC

Everyone has some idea of how to handle being pulled over (or in Adrian Hill's case, caught on YouTube). However, everyone panics just a little when they see those red and blue lights in the rearview mirror.

Whether you've been speeding, driving recklessly, or you really don't know why you're being stopped, here are a few simple steps to take when pulled over:

1. Pull over as quickly, safely, and carefully as possible. Safety first, people. No matter what, you want to be as polite to the officer as you can. Part of this means pulling as far to the side as possible so they won't worry about being hit as they approach your car on foot. Also, the quicker you respond to their sirens, the more cooperative you will appear to be.

2. Await the officers instructions. While you do want to be cooperative, don't take it too far. If you start digging around for your license and registration before the officer asks for them, it can imply you "know the drill,". This tells the cop you've had some experience with this, and makes you look slightly suspicious. Just do as you are told, when you are told to do so.

As in most states, you are required to have your license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance available in Virginia. If you need to retrieve any of these items from your glovebox, let the officer know before you reach for it. You should make sure they can see your hands (and any passengers hands) at all times.

3. Don't admit fault. Inevitably, the officer will ask if you know why you've been pulled over. While tempting to spit back some Jay-Z lyrics, stop. The best answer to this question is most likely no sir, or no maam. Fighting a ticket becomes far more difficult when you have expressed guilt.

4. Sign the ticket. If the officer decides to give you a ticket, sign it when he or she asks you to do so. Signing the ticket is not an admission of guilt. Remember, you need to be polite even if you disagree with the charge. Its better to contact an experienced attorney and let them handle your dispute than argue with an officer.

Dealing with tickets can be unpleasant. Many people just want to pay their fine and get it over with. This may be okay for some people, but keep in mind the effect multiple speeding tickets and/or reckless driving charges can have on your driving record and insurance rates. Hiring an experienced lawyer may be the best thing for your future.

Copyright (c) 2010 James Parrish

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Jim Parrish, Experienced Virginia attorney: http://dwiblog.theparrishlawfirm.com
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