Have you ever been driving or riding along, feeling carefree and enjoying the ride, when suddenly you see the flashing lights of a traffic police vehicle in your rearview mirror? Your heart starts racing, and you wonder what you have done wrong!
Do not worry, as it has happened to the best of us! But, being prepared and knowing what to do when the traffic police stop you can make all the difference. This article will share valuable tips and tricks to help you stay calm, cooperative, and compliant.
From understanding your rights and responsibilities to knowing what documents to carry, this article has got you covered! Whether you are a seasoned driver or a new rider.
10 Tips to Keep in Mind If You Are Stopped by the Traffic Police
Stay calm
The first traffic police stop tip is to stay calm when stopped by traffic police. It helps you get through the interaction smoothly. Just because you have been stopped does not mean you have done something wrong. Traffic police often stop people for routine inquiries or to check vehicles for specific reasons. Respond respectfully to questions and provide requested documents promptly. Understand your rights and when to exercise them if you feel they are being violated. For example, the Motor Vehicles Act of 1932 states that it is illegal for an officer to forcefully take away your car keys.
Cooperate with officers
Cooperating with traffic police during a stop can help the process go faster and smoother. It can also help ensure a more positive interaction. Traffic laws typically require drivers to pull over safely, provide requested documents, and follow instructions from officers. Not stopping your vehicle may lead to legal complications. When drivers comply promptly with requests, officers can efficiently verify the necessary information and address any concerns, allowing both parties to resume their activities sooner.
Be polite
Another traffic stop safety tip is being polite when stopped by traffic police. Being polite can help ease anxiety and keep the situation under control. Use the words please and thank you. You can politely decline a search if the officer does not have probable cause. You can politely ask why you have been stopped to clarify the situation and accept if you have broken any law.
Avoid being aggressive
While dealing with traffic police, you must avoid being aggressive. Avoid inflammatory language and try to keep your guard up. Stick to neutral statements that do not sound like accusations or attacks. Do not reciprocate if you are provoked, and avoid eye contact. A polite gesture that suggests you are sorry and do not want conflict might help.
Keep your hands on the steering wheel
When a traffic officer stops you, you should keep your hands on the steering wheel to show that you are not a threat. It is also easy for the officer to see your hands and if they move. Keeping your hands on the wheel also means you are not reaching into a part of the car that the officer can not see. Avoid reaching for things that are not in view, especially if you have not been asked for anything.
Do not offer a bribe
Another traffic violation guidance is bribery is a crime and can lead to corruption and other consequences. It can also compromise the integrity of traffic police officers and put their lives at risk. Traffic police in India may take bribes to increase their income, but this is punishable if caught. If you are asked for a bribe by a police officer, you can file a complaint with senior police officers in writing. You can either hand over the complaint in person at their office or send it by registered post.
Apologise to the officer
Some say that apologising to the police can positively affect various law enforcement situations. When a traffic police officer stops you, you should apologise politely for any mistakes you may have made. A polite demeanour can help you avoid a challan, especially if the offence is minor. Ensure you apologise for any mistake, whether intentionally or unintentionally. You must also have
insurance for two-wheeler third parties. Not having insurance can lead to challenges and hefty fines.
Turn off the engine
When traffic police stop your car, you should turn off the engine to show that you will not speed away. Turning off the engine is a courtesy, but it is not required unless the officer tells you to. You should also avoid changing lanes quickly, stopping your vehicle suddenly, exiting your vehicle quickly, rumbling around in your car or pockets, and arguing with the officer.
Ask for the officer’s ID.
You can ask traffic police for their ID if you have doubts about their authenticity, especially if they are not in uniform. If they refuse to show you their ID, you can also refuse to show them your documents. If the traffic police seize your licence, they are required to give you a receipt from the Traffic Police Department.
Follow the traffic rules
Traffic rules are vital to follow to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and other road users. The
Motor Vehicles Act 1988 outlines a set of basic traffic rules everyone should follow. Breaking these rules can result in a traffic fine. Some examples of traffic violations include not wearing a helmet on a two-wheeler, Not following traffic signals and Excessive speeding.
Quick Summary
These are the Police stop advice you must know:
- Understand your rights
- Carry mandatory documents
- Maintain composure
- Keep your documents in digital form
- Try to reason with the officer if you have not made a mistake
- Pay the fine if you are at fault
- Do not bribe the police officer
Be a responsible citizen and follow the traffic rules to avoid mishaps. If you have not already insured the vehicle, you must get
2-wheeler insurance online and avail of numerous benefits offered by Bajaj Allianz.
* Standard T&C Apply
‘Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
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