10 Things Not to Do When Stopped by a Cop

Sure, your heart’s racing and your brain’s doing cartwheels, but if you want to leave this traffic stop with your dignity (and your pulse) intact, here’s what not to do:

1. Don’t Reach for Anything Suddenly

   Unless you enjoy the sound of guns cocking in stereo, keep those hands visible.

2. Don’t Argue About Why You Were Pulled Over

   he roadside is not a courtroom. Save your “technically, officer” speech for Judge Judy.

3. Don’t Make Jokes About Weapons

   Spoiler: “It’s just my banana” is not as funny as you think.

4. Don’t Pretend You Don’t Hear Them

   This isn’t selective hearing practice. Ignoring instructions = bad plan.

5. Don’t Get Out of the Car Unless Told

   Stepping out uninvited says, “Let’s escalate this.” Stay seated.

6. Don’t Try to Record in a Hostile Way

   You have the right to film but doing it like a paparazzo on Red Bull is a great way to make everyone tense.

7. Don’t Argue About Your Rights Like You’re on TikTok

   Knowing your rights is great; performing them for clout is not.

8. Don’t Reach for Your Glovebox Without Warning

   A casual “Just grabbing my registration” can save your life.

9. Don’t Get Snarky

   Yes, you’re frustrated. Yes, they might be having a bad day too. Snark turns “bad day” into “bad outcome.”

10. Don’t Run

    Seriously. This isn’t a Marvel movie. You won’t outrun radios, helicopters, and 17 cruisers.

Final Thoughts

Stay calm, be clear, and remember — your goal is to get home, not go viral.