A 3-minute lesson from the Colorado course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Officers stop drivers when they suspect a traffic or criminal violation. A stop is stressful for everyone, including the officer. Knowing what to do keeps you, your passengers and the officer safe.
When you see emergency lights or hear sirens behind you:
Signal and pull off or to the right side as soon as it's safe
Turn off the engine and any audio devices
Stay in the vehicle unless the officer tells you to get out
At night, turn on your interior lights
Keep your hands on the steering wheel or visible
Follow all instructions given to you or your passengers
The officer will typically ask for your driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. If they're out of reach, say where they are and wait for the officer's OK.
Don't argue if you disagree; contest the decision in court. If you think the officer acted inappropriately, ask to speak to a supervisor, as soon as possible after the stop.
You're pulled over at night and your registration is in the glove box. Turn on the dome light, keep your hands on the wheel, tell the officer where the registration is, and wait for the OK before reaching for it.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
When you see emergency lights behind you, what is the FIRST thing you should do?
Roll down all your windows
Signal and pull to the right when safe
Stop immediately in your lane
Speed up to find a safer spot
Answer: Signal and pull to the right when safe
When stopped by law enforcement, signal and pull to the right side of the road as soon as it's safe to do so.