What should I do if I am pulled over by a police officer?

What You Should Do When Being Pulled Over

If a police officer stops you while you are driving, you should:

  • Avoid sudden movements in the vehicle so the officer is not unnecessarily alarmed
  • Keep your hands visible by placing them on the steering wheel (any passengers should also keep their hands visible)
  • Pull your vehicle to the right side of the road out of the flow of traffic and come to a complete stop
  • Remain calm
  • Stay in your vehicle and follow the officer's instructions
  • Tell the officer where you are reaching when your driver's license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance is requested
  • Turn on the interior light at nighttime after coming to a complete stop


What You Shouldn't Do When Being Pulled Over

If a police officer stops you while you are driving, you should not:

  • Become engaged in an argument with the officer
  • Drive away, until directed by the officer
  • Exit your vehicle
  • Reach for anything in the vehicle before telling the officer what you're doing


Conclusion of a Traffic Stop

At the conclusion of the traffic stop:

  • If you are issued a traffic citation, you will be asked to sign for it. This is not an admission of guilt, just an acknowledgement to show that you received your copy
  • If you do not agree with the traffic citation, request a hearing to have your case decided by a Magisterial District Judge

Show All Answers

1. When do I need to file a crash report?
2. What other services does the Police Department offer?
3. Will the Police Department respond if I lock my keys in my car?
4. How do I file a citizen complaint against an officer?
5. What should I do if I am pulled over by a police officer?
6. I have a problem with motorists violating traffic laws on my street (speeding, failing to stop for posted signs, ect.). Is there anything the Police Department can do about this?
7. What is the telephone number for the Murrysville Police Department?
8. Where is the Murrysville Police Department?
9. How do I file a police report?
10. How do I obtain police reports?
11. How do I contest a traffic citation?
12. How do I pay a traffic citation?
13. How do I pay a parking ticket?
14. How do I contest a parking ticket?
15. How can I have my fingerprints taken for employment purposes?
16. How can I obtain a permit to carry a firearm?
17. Does the Murrysville Police Department offer vacation checks?
18. What do I do about a lost dog?
19. What can I do about a dead deer in front of my house?
20. How do I get a handicap parking placard?
21. How do I get a criminal record check and / or a clearance check for employment?
22. Does the Murrysville Police Department charge a service fee for responding to false alarms?
23. I just saw something that looked very strange, possibly a crime. I'm not sure if I should call the police. What should I do?