Georgia driving lesson · Crashes and Traffic Stops
When you're pulled over
A 3-minute lesson from the Georgia course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
A traffic stop can be stressful for you, your passengers and the officer. Officers stop drivers when they have reasonable suspicion of a traffic or criminal violation. Knowing what to do keeps everyone safe.
When you see emergency lights behind you:
Stay calm; signal and pull off to the side as soon as it's safe
Turn off the engine and any audio devices
Stay in your vehicle unless the officer tells you to get out
At night, turn on your interior lights
Keep your hands on the steering wheel or where they can be seen
Follow all instructions the officer gives you or your passengers
The officer will typically show credentials if not in uniform (you may ask to see them), explain the stop, and ask for your license, proof of insurance and registration.
If you disagree, don't argue; contest it in court. If you believe the officer acted inappropriately, ask to speak to a supervisor, as soon as possible after the stop.
You're stopped at night and your registration is in the glove box. Turn on the dome light, keep your hands on the wheel, and tell the officer where it is. Reach for it only after the officer says to.
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.
If you are pulled over by police at night, what should you do to help with visibility?
Turn on your high beams
Step out and stand beside your car
Turn on your interior lights
Roll down all your windows
Answer: Turn on your interior lights
At night, turn on your interior lights to assist with visibility.