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Probably everyone has been in such a situation: You are driving down the highway when– unexpectedly– you see those blue and red lights behind. Stopping by the police is a very stressful situation, but it is better to stay in control anyway. This is because anything you do and say could have a massive result on any kind of lawful process that may comply with. Whether the traffic stop ends in a simple moving violation or an arrest for a more serious crime, the steps you take are critical.

Attorneys Mckoon, Williams, Atchley & Stanley share the following important information about what drivers should do when they get pulled over in Chattanooga, Tennessee:

 Stop the car

When you realize that a police car is following you, you are obliged by law to stop your vehicle quickly, but safely. Please remain calm during this time. In most circumstances, stopping the car doesn’t mean you admit your guilt – you’re just a driver who is alert to everything happening around. Also, this is an opportunity to find out the exact reason of stop. This information can be useful should you and a lawyer later need to prepare a defense.

Turn off your engine

You need to turn off the engine and anything else that might interfere your clear communication with the officer. Usually, this indicates shutting off your music and throwing out a cigarette if you have one and any chewing gum within the vehicle.

Place your hands on the steering wheel

If you are alone in the car, keep your hands visible on the steering wheel. If there is anybody else inside, they also must keep their hands visible during the talk with the police. Even if you want to take out your documents or driving license, it is better to wait for the officer’s request.  Remember: he/she knows nothing about you and anyone can be asked to stop on the street. Although such a situation is stressful for everyone, you can make things safer for all parties by keeping calm and keeping your hands visible, as it may seem like you are reaching for a weapon.

Stay inside

Do not step out of your automobile unless the officer tells you to do so. Once again, this holds true for passengers also. Just stay inside not to make the police officer to feel nervous or in a potential danger. After all, police officers have been killed in traffic-stop situations, and the officer’s approach to the vehicle is potentially the most dangerous moment.

Don’t argue

Road is not the best place to argue about the reason of the stop. Being hostile has actually led many people to problems in future. Comply with reasonable requests and react appropriately where suitable. As an example, when asked to hand over your license, enrollment, and proof of insurance coverage, you should claim something like, “Okay,” or, “Sure,” and also hand over the papers.

McKoon, Williams, Atchley & Stanley, PLLC warns that sometimes policemen act as though they might change their minds if you cooperate so that they can get information or an admission out of you.

Talking to a legal representative

Simple website traffic offenses often do not call for the assistance of a lawyer. Much more major accusations– like a fee of driving drunk or possession of medicines– often do. If you need to know exactly how the legislation in your state puts on your scenario, get in touch with a seasoned criminal defense attorney. An experienced lawyer can identify whether there could be a basis for a movement to suppress proof and otherwise overview you with the procedure.

Very often, small traffic violations don’t require the assistance of an attorney. Much more major accusations — like a charge of driving under the influence or possession of medicines — often do. If you want to know how the legislation in Tennessee state applies to your situation, contact our experienced attorneys from criminal defense attorney. McKoon, Williams, Atchley & Stanley, PLLC can guide you through the process.