Know Where Your Driving Record Stands Before You Take Action
Your initial reaction may be to pay the ticket, admit your guilt, and move on. Do you know the current status of your driving record, though? You may have already accumulated enough points on your driving record. If you’re close to fifteen points, pleading “nolo” on a new charge that pushes you over the limit could lead to a suspended license shortly after your court date.
In addition, your insurance company is not so much concerned with the points on your record as the actual driving offenses. Your insurance company will also treat your “nolo” pleas the same as a guilty plea, meaning they may hike your rates for even just a few points on your driving record.
This is why you need to know what’s currently on your record. Knowing where you stand can help you make an informed decision if you’re facing new traffic violations.
What to Do When You’re Pulled Over
Being pulled over is a frightening experience for anyone, whether it’s your first or fifteenth time. No one wants to see those blue and red flashing lights behind them. It’s enough to make you anxious and cause your blood pressure to rise. How you handle yourself after being pulled over can make a significant difference in the outcome, no matter what the alleged offense. Here’s what to do and what not to do when a police officer stops your vehicle.
Don’t Throw Anything Out the Window
During the time when the police officer turns his lights on and you come to a stop, don’t throw anything out the window. Officers are taught to look for this. They will automatically assume you threw away something illegal, even if it was just a cigarette.
Keep Your Hands In View at All Times
When the police officer approaches your vehicle, keep your hands on the steering wheel. Always allow the police officer to see your hands. When asked for your license and registration, inform the officer of its location and ask permission to obtain it. Do not reach into the glove compartment or into your purse without first letting the officer know what you’re doing.
Don’t Admit to Anything
The police officer will likely have many questions for you. You must, by law, answer questions to identify yourself. You do not need to tell the officer where you were coming from or where you are going. Simply say “no comment.” If you are asked the common question, “Were you aware that you were speeding,” do not answer “yes” or “no.” Both answers can be used against you. Again, a “no comment” answer will suffice.
Never Resist an Officer
You can decline a search of your vehicle, but if the officer decides to search anyway, you cannot stop them. You also cannot resist an officer if they arrest you. Even if you are being searched or arrested, be as polite as possible to the police officer, say as little as possible, and contact an attorney as soon as possible.
At the Kimbrel Law Firm, we have experience helping individuals who have been issued tickets in Atlanta protect their rights and their driving record. You don’t have to just pay a ticket if you get one — you can argue against it and we can assist you. Call today for a consultation at 770-349-9219.
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