What Should Your Client Do If They Get Pulled Over?
Your client's heart sinks as they catch a glimpse of flashing lights in their rearview mirror. A little rattled and with their mind racing, they call you as their trusted advisor, quickly explain the situation, and ask, "What should I do?" To the relief of your client, you can give them the following advice to make the experience of being pulled over a little less stressful:
- Pull over. The first thing your client should do as soon as they notice those flashing lights is pull over to the right side of the road as quickly as it is safe to do so. They should turn off the car and open the window partway. If it is nighttime, your client should turn on the internal light.
- Keep calm and still, with their hands on the steering wheel. Your client should stay in their vehicle, avoid making any sudden movements, and keep their hands in sight on the steering wheel. If your client needs to move, they should tell the officer what they plan to do. For example, before reaching for the glove compartment, they should say to the officer, "Officer, I am going to take my right hand off the steering wheel and reach over to the glove compartment and open it to get my vehicle registration. Is that okay with you?"
- When asked, provide the requested documents. Your client should provide their driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance when the officer asks for them. Again, your client should alert the officer prior to making any movements, such as by saying, "I am now going to take my left hand off the steering wheel and reach into my back pocket to pull out my wallet so that I can get my license out. Are you okay with me doing that?"
- Be respectful. Your client should address the officer with respect and courtesy, just as they should expect the officer to address them. If the officer does not tell your client the reason they were stopped, the client may inquire about the reason, but they should not argue about it with the officer. If your client is issued a citation and they disagree with it, the appropriate place to dispute it is in court.
Getting pulled over can put a damper on anyone's day, but your client will experience less aggravation from the experience thanks to your straightforward advice and will be back on the road in no time.
MEREDITH | PC
4325 Windsor Centre Trail
Suite 400
Flower Mound Texas 75028
214-513-1013
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as written advice about a Federal tax matter. Readers should consult with their own professional advisors to evaluate or pursue tax, accounting, financial, or legal planning strategies.
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