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Traffic stops are one of the most common ways that the average citizen of Los Angeles will ever interact with the police. As it’s very easy to make mistakes during these stops, it’s vital that you know and understand your rights when they happen. 

It’s also important to know exactly what to do so you don’t get yourself into trouble in the traffic stop that you might have otherwise avoided.

What to Do at a Traffic Stop

1. Put on your turn signal or hazard lights and pull over as soon as is feasible. 
2. Be prepared to provide your license and registration.
3. Turn on your interior lights if you are driving at night.
4. Put your hands on the wheel and wait for officer instructions.
5. Stay in your car, unless the officers tell you to leave it. 
6. Be friendly and polite. Move slowly. 

Actions to Avoid at a Traffic Stop

1. Throwing anything out the window, even something harmless like gum.
2. Answering questions. When the officer asks you if you know why you were pulled over, say, “No, officer.” They are looking for evidence to use against you, not a real answer.
3. Explaining yourself. The only thing you can do when you explain yourself is hand the officer more information to use against you.
4. Consent to a search. If you are asked for permission to search your car or your person, say, “I do not consent to a search.” You only have to let them search if they produce a warrant.

Remember, you have the right to remain silent—even during a traffic stop! Be polite, but do not volunteer any information! In addition, you should remember that giving police officers consent to a search is giving them access to your car that they can use to plant evidence to use against you! Don’t let them pressure you by saying you’d let them search if you had nothing to hide. Just politely decline.

Sobriety Tests at LA Traffic Stops

If you are asked to step out of the vehicle you must do so.

In California, you may decline a breath test if you have not yet been arrested but doing so can lead to your immediate arrest. The only people who must submit to a breath test immediately are drivers below the age of 21 or drivers who are on probation for a DUI charge.

You can also decline field sobriety tests. 

If arrested, you will not be able to avoid breathalyzer tests or blood tests. That said, if officers believe you are guilty of DUI, they’re going to arrest you no matter what. Depriving them of evidence may be an excellent move. This is a call you’ll have to make in the moment. 

Get Help Today

Any traffic stop can lead to an arrest, even if you’re innocent. 

If your traffic stop did, then reach out to our law firm today. We can help you defend against whatever charges have been levied against you. 

See also: 

Do You Have to Take the Field Sobriety Test in Los Angeles, CA? 

What to Do If You Get Arrested in Los Angeles, CA

How to Exercise Your 5th Amendment Rights After a Los Angeles Arrest