Pull to the nearest/safest spot out of traffic, use your turn signal, and remember SAFETY.

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• S – Stay calm and remain in the vehicle (unless instructed otherwise). Keep your seat belt fastened, and roll the window down completely.

• A – Always keep both hands visible to the officer. Driver’s hands should be on the steering wheel. Turn on interior lights if stopped at night.

• F – Focus on the officer. Turn off the radio, put down any mobile devices, and be courteous even if you disagree.

• E – Explanations can be made in court, not on the road side. Do NOT argue with the officer.

• T – Tell the officer where your documents (i.e. driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration) are located. Take out your documents only after the officer’s request.

• Y – You should NOT make sudden moves or threatening gestures. Inform the officer if there is a weapon in the vehicle and where. Do NOT reach for the weapon.

 

Things You Should Know

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• If the officer is not in uniform or does not have a marked patrol car, you should ask for identification.

• The officer may approach the driver’s side or passenger side of the vehicle. Do not be alarmed; he or she will approach in the safest manner.

• If you receive a citation in Georgia, you will be asked to sign it.

• Signing the citation is NOT an admission of guilt. It only means that you received a citation for a violation.

• Any refusal to sign the citation could result in you being arrested and taken to jail to post a bond.

• You will be given a court date to argue your case.

• You should not discard your copy of the citation.