Once you see blue lights and/or sirens behind your car,
safely pull to the right shoulder of the road out of the flow of
traffic.
If it is dark or you do not feel comfortable, put your
hazard lights on and slowly continue to a well-lit area (by doing this
the officer is aware that you have acknowledged the traffic stop).
If you have doubts about an officer being a real officer
ask which department does he work for and if you could see his/her
credentials. The officer should have no problem producing this - another
option is to call 911 from your cell phone.
Once you safely stop, turn your interior lights on and
place your hands on the steering wheel.
Do not fumble around in the car while the officer is
approaching your vehicle – if your license and registration is not
readily accessible, wait until he/she gets up to the vehicle and tells
you to retrieve the items and then explain to the officer what you need
to do to comply.
Stay calm and don’t get defensive with the officer (he
may have stopped you for your own safety i.e. Flat tire, keys dangling
from the trunk etc.)
Obey the officer’s instructions. The officer will
probably ask you for your driver’s license, vehicle registration and
proof of insurance. You should keep those things in an accessible
location at all times.
Once the officer has completed the traffic stop and has
cleared you to proceed, enter the roadway before the officer does since
motorists are using caution because of the blue lights.
If you feel you have had an unfavorable experience with a
Richland County Sheriff’s Department deputy, please bring it to our
attention by calling (803) 576-3032.