Seeing police lights in your rearview mirror is stressful. However, your actions during those first few minutes can determine whether you drive away with a warning or end up in handcuffs.

The Right to Remain Silent

You must provide your license, registration, and insurance. Beyond that, you are not required to answer questions like "Do you know how fast you were going?" or "Where are you coming from?" politely decline to answer.

Searches and Consent

Police may ask, "Do you mind if I take a look in your car?" The answer should always be NO. You do not have to consent to a search. If they search anyway, do not physically resist—your lawyer will challenge the legality of the search in court later.

Field Sobriety Tests

In Pennsylvania, you are not legally required to perform Field Sobriety Tests (walking a straight line, standing on one leg). These tests are subjective and designed for you to fail. You can politely refuse them.

Note: This is different from a chemical breath or blood test after arrest. Refusing a chemical test carries automatic license suspension penalties.