Things to Keep in Mind in Case Your Car is Stopped by the Traffic Police
Being ordered by a traffic police to pull over is something that any driver faces at least once. It is the responsibility of a traffic policeman to keep traffic on the roads running smoothly. He/she still prohibits the violation of laws. Many of us, however, would be unaware of the reason why we were asked to pull over. This is when one must be respectful of their rights and keep their cool.
It is true that some motorists do not follow much discipline and system on Indian roads, but that does not imply you can take it for granted too. You may believe the traffic police is not there, so it's safe to break one traffic signal and run. However, you never know when the traffic police could abruptly appear on the scene, telling you to pull over. Regardless about whether or not you are at fault, it is undoubtedly a nerve-racking experience to interact with the traffic police.
Things You Should Do if Pulled over by the Traffic Police
If you get pulled over and have to face them, here's how to make the conversation pleasant and less challenging.
- Do Not Panic: When your car is signalled to halt by the traffic police, you must not panic. Try to be calm and do not get out of your car and know why your car has been stopped. Turn down your window and wait for the police since that would mean that you have not done anything wrong. You must also turn the engine of your car off, since that would tell the police you're not trying to run away.
- Cooperate with the Traffic Police: When a traffic police orders you to stop, you should cooperate with the traffic cops and stop your car. Do not attempt to avoid the traffic police and continue driving as it will lead to serious problems for you.
- Pull Your Car Aside Safely: After looking for any speeding cars in other lanes, you can pull your car over. You must not rush to change lanes and stop the car, since it can lead to a big accident.
- Stay Polite: When speaking with a traffic police, you must talk respectfully. Apologise respectfully for the mistakes you have made. The police will leave you with a warning if you are respectful and will not issue a challan, if you only have committed a minor violation.
- Do Not Argue or Bribe the Traffic Police: If you have violated the rule, you should not argue with the traffic cop. If you have not broken any rules, you can calmly justify your viewpoint to the cop. Moreover, you should not attempt to bribe the traffic cop as you might get arrested for doing so. If you have violated the rule you must pay the fine.
- Detention: If you are seen violating the rules, the traffic police will detain your vehicle. When the traffic police arrest you for violating the laws, you have to present yourself in front of a judge for your hearing in less than 24 hours.
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Bottom Line
When on the roads, nobody wants to come under the radar of the cops, be it a young driver or an experienced one. It is sometimes inevitable, however, to be stopped by the traffic police. The rule of thumb is to be respectful to the officer to stop being uncomfortable. You should start driving after the police have gone, provided that you are calm and composed.
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.