What to Say—and NOT Say—to Police During a Traffic Stop

You're driving along. You see the flashing lights. You pull over.
Now what?

Whether you’ve done something wrong or not, what you say (and how you say it) during a traffic stop can absolutely affect your legal outcome. Here's what you need to know to protect your rights and avoid making things worse.

First, Know This: You Still Have Rights in a Traffic Stop

Just because it’s “only” a traffic stop doesn’t mean your rights disappear.
You still have:

• The right to remain silent

• The right to refuse a search (with exceptions)

• The right to speak with an attorney

But how you use those rights matters.

What You Should Say

1. “Good morning, officer.”

Politeness never hurts. Be respectful, calm, and cooperative. You don’t have to overdo it—but don’t escalate either.

2. “I’m going to reach for my license/registration.”

Always narrate your movements so there are no surprises.

3. “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?”

This is a golden line. If you’re not being detained, you have the right to leave.

4. “I’d like to speak to a lawyer.”

If things get serious, say it—and then stop talking. You don’t have to explain or justify anything beyond that.

What You Shouldn’t Say

1. “I only had two drinks.”

Congratulations—you just admitted to drinking and driving.
Silence is smarter than confidence.

2. “I don’t think I was speeding.”

Any statement—even a denial—can be used against you. Let your attorney handle the debating later.

3. “Sure, you can search the car.”

Unless they have a warrant or probable cause, you don’t have to consent.
Say: “I do not consent to a search.” (Politely.)

4. “I know my rights!” (shouted angrily)

You do—but don’t weaponize them. Asserting your rights should be calm and clear, not confrontational.

Quick Tips

• Keep your hands visible

• Don’t argue on the roadside—save it for court

• Record the interaction if it’s legal in your state (in Michigan, it is)

• Ask if you’re free to go. If yes, go. If no, zip it.

Final Word from Newburg Law

Police encounters can be stressful—even when you’ve done nothing wrong. But panic, sarcasm, or oversharing won’t help your case.

The goal? Stay calm, stay smart, and stay quiet when it counts.

Need help after a stop that went south?
We’re here. We’ve seen it all—and we know how to help.

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