Your Rights When Pulled Over By The Police
Unfortunately, many people do not understand what rights apply when the police pull them over. In other situations, people forget or overlook their rights because they get overwhelmed by the police officer’s authority. Whatever the case, it is in your best interests to keep in mind your rights after getting pulled over by the police.
Below are some of the rights you need to remember after getting pulled by the police in Kentucky:
The Right To Remain Silent
Although this is one right that is often talked about, many people don’t know about it. On the other hand, others forget or overlook it when pulled over by the police. It is extremely crucial that you remember you have the right to remain silent during a traffic stop. You are not obligated to answer any questions an officer asks you after they pull you over. Remaining silent can help you avoid self-incriminating yourself.
However, you should note that Kentucky law requires you to identify yourself after getting pulled over by the police. Drivers in Kentucky must provide their driver’s license, registration, and proof of registration if asked to do so. However, other than that, you don’t need to answer an officer’s questions.
The Right To Refuse to Consent to a Search of Your Vehicle
You have the right to refuse to consent to a search of your vehicle during a Kentucky traffic stop. If you refuse to consent to a search, the police are not allowed to search your car. An officer is only allowed to search your car without your consent if their safety is at risk. Otherwise, if an officer searches your car without your permission, any evidence they find in your car cannot be used against you.
If a drug-sniffing dog sniffs your vehicle, this cannot be said to be a search according to the law. This is because you have no reasonable expectation of privacy concerning unlawful contraband within your car. Additionally, it is crucial to note that if a drug-sniffing dog alerts an officer about possible illegal contraband in your vehicle, the officer can search your vehicle without a warrant.
The Right to an Attorney
Suppose you are arrested during a traffic stop. In such a case, it is crucial that you remember you have the right to an attorney. If you ask for an attorney and refuse to answer the police officer’s questions without your attorney present, the officer should stop questioning you. As much as you have the right to represent yourself, it is advisable that you avoid self-representation. After being arrested, an attorney can prove quite beneficial. An attorney can help protect your rights. An attorney can also guide you through the complex criminal justice system and help you make the right legal decisions.
What To Do if You Are Stopped in Your Vehicle
Apart from understanding your rights, it is also important that you understand what to do when stopped by a police officer. The following are some crucial things to do when stopped by a police officer;
- Slow down and pull over: avoid fleeing
- Remain in your vehicle unless you’re asked to exit the vehicle
- Be respectful
- Avoid arguing with the officer
Contact a London Criminal Defense Attorney
If you need more information about your rights during a Kentucky traffic stop or if you were arrested during a Kentucky traffic stop, don’t hesitate to contact a London criminal defense attorney at Cessna & George Law Firm today.
