What should you do if you are pulled over by law enforcement?

When you are pulled over by law enforcement, the safest and most appropriate action is to pull over safely, remain in your vehicle, and follow the officer's instructions. This protocol ensures both your safety and that of the officer. By staying in your vehicle, you avoid creating unnecessary tension or confusion that could arise from exiting the car. It also allows the officer to manage the situation more effectively, keeping interactions calm and controlled.

Remaining in the vehicle is standard procedure because it prevents any misinterpretation of your actions; for instance, exiting the vehicle could be perceived as a threat or as non-compliance. Additionally, following the officer's commands helps facilitate a smooth interaction during the traffic stop, ensuring that you both have clear communication throughout the process.

Choosing to inform someone by phone, exiting the vehicle, or simply turning off the car without following the officer's instructions could lead to miscommunication or escalate tensions, which is why those options may not be suitable in this situation.