What to do if the police stop you
List of rights that an individual has when faced with the police.
If police stop you in your car …
• Keep your hands on the steering wheel.
• Upon request, show them your driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance.
• Do not open your trunk or car door. If you do, you’ve consented to a search of both your property and you.
• If you’re given a ticket, sign it, otherwise you can be arrested. You can fight the case in court later.
• If you’re suspected of drunk driving and refuse to take a blood, urine or breath test, your driver’s license may be suspended.
• You don’t have to have your picture taken unless you are arrested and booked.
If police stop you …
• Be polite and respectful. Don’t argue.
• Remain silent. The less you say the better. Keep your hands visible.
• Show I.D. if detained. If you don’t, they can keep you up to three days to identify you.
• Never consent to a search. Don’t resist physically but do state loud and clear: "I do not consent to a search."
• Do not open your bag for them. If you do, you’re consenting to a search.
• Police may pat down your clothing if they suspect concealed weapons or drugs.
If police arrest you …
• Do not answer questions until you have a lawyer present. Say, "I choose to remain silent and I want to talk to my attorney."
• You may be handcuffed, searched, photographed and fingerprinted.
• Do not talk about your case to inmates in jail or anyone except your attorney.
• If you think your rights have been violated,
call the Policewatch Hotline: (213) 387-3325
Source: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)