What Can Police Do During a Traffic Stop? Know Your Rights

by | Jul 19, 2019 | Traffic | 0 comments

A simple encounter with law enforcement can sometimes spiral out of control, with tragic consequences. Dash-cam and cellphone footage of the traffic stop of Sandra Bland by a Texas police officer is a prime example.

Being stopped by the police can be a confusing and complicated experience. We at Christopher Trainor and Associates, a leading legal team in Michigan for twenty years, would like to help Michigan citizens by answering any questions you may have about your rights during traffic stops and other encounters with law enforcement. 

What Are My Rights During A Traffic Stop

If you’re stopped by the police, it’s important to have a valid driver’s license, your registration, and proof of insurance in your vehicle. You’re required to surrender these items to the officer upon request. Initially, the officer may allow you to remain in your vehicle while your ID is being checked. If the officer asks you to exit your vehicle, you’re legally required to comply. It’s best not to argue with the officer, even if you feel you’re in the right. If you believe you have been wrongly ticketed, it’s best to present your case in court. Arguing about the ticket with the officer could lead to your arrest — or worse. 

What If I Am Asked To Leave A Public Area

You’re allowed to remain in a public area if you’re not breaking any laws. If you are interfering with the flow of traffic, are on private property, or committing any illegal act, you must comply with the officer or you can be arrested. 

Is It Legal To Record Video Of The Police? 

You’re only allowed to record video of an on-duty police officer who is in a public space. You cannot, however, do anything that can obstruct an investigation by law enforcement. 

Can I Be Stopped And Searched On The Street 

Yes, if you give consent or if the officer has reasonable suspicion that you have committed a crime.

Can I Be Forced To Stop And Talk To Law Enforcement While Walking

You must comply if the officer has reasonable suspicion that you have committed a crime. Otherwise, you do not have to stop or speak with law enforcement. Simply ask if you are free to leave. 

Understanding Your Legal Rights

Sometimes police officers overstep their authority. If you believe you’ve been the victim of police misconduct, contact the experienced attorneys at Christopher Trainer and Associates, who are available to help you pursue your case in a court of law. If you’re the victim of police misconduct, gather as much documented evidence as possible, and have an attorney review your case. 

Experienced Legal Representation Matters

The attorneys at the Michigan Legal Center have helped residents for the last two decades present strong police misconduct cases. Call 1800-961-8477 for a free consultation with an experienced lawyer. Christopher Trainor & Associates are happy to answer any questions you have and advise you on the next steps you need to take to receive compensation after a bad experience with law enforcement.

Christopher Trainor and Associates Featured on WXYZ

Recently Christopher Trainor and Associates was featured on WXYZ 7 Action News in Detroit regarding a client's case against the Detroit Police Department in which the client was wrongly arrested and held in jail. The full article and can be found on the WXYZ website.

St Joseph, MI – Injuries Result from Wreck on I-94 near Martin Luther King Dr

St Joseph, MI (March 25, 2022) - A major car crash happened on an interstate in St Joseph on the afternoon of March 20. At approximately 5:10 p.m., an unspecified number of vehicles collided on Interstate 94. Reports show the accident happened on I-94 near Martin...

Zeeland, MI – Auto Accident on Fairview Rd at Washington Ave Ends in Injuries

Zeeland, MI (March 25, 2022) - An auto accident happened on the morning of March 25 in Zeeland that resulted in injuries. The wreck occurred shortly after 8:00 a.m., according to reports.  Sources say the collision took place on Fairview Road near Washington...

Paw Paw, MI – Major Car Crash on M-43 between 37th & 40th St

Paw Paw, MI (March 25, 2022) - A motor vehicle accident occurred in Paw Paw on the morning of March 23 that required an emergency response. The incident was reported to authorities in the area at around 12:21 p.m. Various responders were observed at the scene of the...

Romulus, MI – Motor Vehicle Collision Causes Injuries on I-94 near Vining Rd

Romulus, MI (March 25, 2022) - At least one person was hurt in a crash reported in Romulus on March 25. At approximately 12:55 p.m., police were dispatched to the scene of the wreck located on Interstate 94.  Responders including paramedics, fire crews, and...

Holland, MI – Injury Accident on Waverly Rd at 48th St Requires EMT Dispatch

Holland, MI (March 25, 2022) - On the morning of March 25, at approximately 6:55 a.m., a car accident in Holland required an emergency dispatch.  Reports indicate that a vehicle collided with a pole near 48th Street on Waverly Road.  To assist the injured...

Jackson, MI – Serious Car Accident on M-106 near Deweese Rd and Hawkins Rd

Jackson, MI (March 25, 2022) - Police officers in Jackson were dispatched to the scene of a major car crash on Friday, March 25. According to local officials, the collision happened at approximately 4:00 p.m. on M-106. While emergency personnel rendered aid to those...

Detroit, MI – Police Dispatched to Crash Scene on I-96 near Davison St

Detroit, MI (March 25, 2022) - On March 25, at least one person was injured in a car accident in Detroit. The wreck was reported to officials in the area at approximately 10:50 p.m. According to information from reports, the accident occurred on I-96 near Davison...

Wyoming, MI – Major Accident on 28th St near Clyde Park Ave

Wyoming, MI (March 24, 2022) - Highway patrol officers and first responders were called to the scene of a vehicle collision on March 24 on 28th Street in Wyoming. Reports show that an unspecified number of vehicles collided in the area, resulting in the injury of at...

St Clair, MI – Siblings Killed in Wreck on Kinney Rd near Burt Rd

St Clair, MI (March 24, 2022) - A brother and sister were killed in a two-car crash on Thursday, March 24 in Riley Township. The incident was reported north of Interstate 69 on Kinney Road near Burt Road.  Three people were also hospitalized with injuries,...