The police may have reasonable suspicion to pull over a vehicle. They can do this if they believe that a driver has committed, is committing or will commit a crime. For example, the police may stop someone if they see a driver run a red light or drive down a one-way road.
Some motorists are unaware of what happens during a traffic stop. However, a lot of individuals are aware that a traffic stop may result in criminal prosecution. You might find it useful to know the following details concerning traffic stops:
You can refuse to answer questions by invoking the Fifth Amendment
The police may interrogate the motorist when conducting a traffic stop. These questions may inquire about a driver’s speed, level of intoxication or knowledge of a traffic violation. The answers to these questions can lead to self-incrimination.
One may invoke the Fifth Amendment. A driver that pleads the Fifth can refuse to answer questions related to possible criminal offenses, which would help avoid an arrest (or, at least, keep a driver from handing the authorities anything they can use).
The accuracy of standardized field sobriety testing varies
Police may request a motorist to take a standardized field sobriety test if they think they are under the influence of alcohol. These tests aid authorities in determining if a driver is in fact intoxicated.
The driver will demonstrate certain physical skills to demonstrate their ability to operate a vehicle safely. These tests aren’t scientifically proven. And, these tests may be unreliable since the police are using their best judgment to grade them. For instance, a health issue might cause a motorist to fail a field sobriety test.
Being aware of your legal rights
A traffic stop could result in a criminal investigation. Learn your legal rights to a powerful defense if you feel that your rights were violated during a traffic stop or that you are being charged incorrectly.
