What should I do if I am stopped by a police officer?

Information about what to do if you are stopped by a police officer.

This guide is available as a PDF document.

Pull Over Immediately

Pull over to the right side of the roadway and position your vehicle as far out of the traffic lane as possible.
Turn off your engine and any audio devices (radio, CD player, cellphone) and roll down your window so you can communicate with the officer.
If the stop takes place in the dark, turn on your emergency flashers and the vehicle's interior lights, so the officer can easily see inside.
Ask the officer for identification if he/ she is not in uniform or if his/ her patrol vehicle does not have official law enforcement markings.

Remain calm and ask all passengers to remain quiet and calm as well.
Keep your seat belt fastened and ask you passengers to do the same.
Stay in your seat and do not get out of the vehicle unless the officer asks you to exit.

Keep your hands in plain view, preferably on the steering wheel. Ask your passengers to keep their hands in plain view or on their laps.
Do not make any suspicious movements, such as; reaching under the seat or dashboard. The officer might think that you are trying to hide something or that you are searching for something.

Let the officer know if you are carrying a weapon in your car or on your person. Tell the officer if you have a concealed carry permit.
Do not be surprised if another patrol car appears. This is only to assure the safety of all parties involved.

The officer will ask for your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
Tell the officer where these documents are located and reach for them slowly, keeping one hand on the steering wheel.

Answer the officers' questions fully and clearly.
If you disagree with the officer, do not discuss your point of view during the traffic stop. You will be given the opportunity to do this in court.
If you receive a citation and choose to go to court, the citation will show the date and location of your court date.

If the reason for the citation is not clear, ask the officer for an explanation in a respectful manner.
If the officer gives you a citation, you will be asked to sign it. Your signature is not an admission to guilt. It only means that you acknowledge receiving the citation.
You must sign the citation. If you refuse to sign the citation, you will be arrested.

If you believe the officer acted improperly, document the interaction and then call the APD Internal Affairs Professional Standards at 505-768-2880. You may also file a complaint online.
If you have any questions about New Mexico traffic laws, consult an attorney or a law enforcement officer who is familiar with the traffic code.