An interaction with police can be an intimidating experience, and that’s especially true if the officer asks you to step outside of the vehicle. Your car may seem like a safety barrier between yourself and the officer, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore their request to exit the vehicle because you are afraid. Below, we talk about when you should and shouldn’t exit your vehicle during a Minnesota traffic stop.
Refusing To Exit The Vehicle
When an officer asks you to “please step out of the vehicle,” make no mistake – they are not asking you to consider stepping out of the vehicle if you’re willing. Despite the phrasing, they are actually ordering you to step out of the vehicle, and refusal of this order will only make things much worse for you. If you refuse, odds are they’ll radio for backup, physically force you out of the vehicle and then charge you with obstruction of justice or a similar charge. Oh, and you’ll still likely end up being cited for speeding or charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, so refusing to exit the vehicle isn’t going to absolve you of the original issue that you were stopped for. You’re only going to make matters much worse by refusing to comply with their demand to exit the vehicle.
You might be thinking, “but what if the officer has no reason to ask me to exit my vehicle?” Even if you believe their is a procedural issue or a rights violation taking place with the traffic stop, now is not the time to take a stand. If you’re right, it will be very easy to prove in court, and the whole case can be dismissed. If you’re mistaken, your refusal will only dig you in a deeper hole. It’s entirely possible that the police screwed up and you feel like you should not have to exit the vehicle, but let that matter be decided in the court of law. Trying to argue your case on the side of the road against police by staying in your vehicle will not end well for you.
On the flip side, let’s talk a little bit about exiting the vehicle. Do not, under any circumstances, exit the vehicle unless you have been directed to do so by the officer. You may think that you’re just trying to clear up an honest mistake by approaching an officer in their vehicle, but they will see your advancement as a threat. A situation can quickly escalate when the driver exits the vehicle, regardless of whether or not they have ill-intentions, so do not get out of the car. If you believe that you need to exit the vehicle for any reason, wait until the officer approaches the vehicle, explain your situation and ask for permission to exit the vehicle.
When it comes to traffic stops, remain in your vehicle at all times unless you have been directed to exit the vehicle by an officer. Once they have requested that you step out of the vehicle, go ahead and exit the car. By doing so, you’ll avoid any additional trouble that could arise out of the situation.
We can help you fight a traffic charge or a rights violation during your traffic stop. To learn more about your legal options, or to speak to an experienced defense attorney in your area, reach out to Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
