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Most people at one time or another will be stopped
by a police officer while driving. Remaining calm and following
some simple guidelines will go a long way toward making the stop
as positive as possible. These guidelines are intended to inform
you of your rights and responsibilities, and what you can expect
from a police officer during a stop. These are general suggestions
to assist you with your contact with the police.
PREVENTION
The average driver receives a traffic citation
once every four years. However, you can do a lot to control your
driving. Driving alertly, being aware of traffic laws, keeping
your car in working order, promptly renewing license plates and
insurance, and promptly clearing all traffic tickets received can
help prevent the experience of a traffic stop. The Bradley Police
Department engages in traffic stops in an effort to keep the motoring
public safe from erratic drivers who may endanger others. Enforcement
is geared toward future prevention.
PROCEDURES-
The Driver
- When
you see the flashing overhead lights, remain calm and pull to
the right side of the road to a safe location.
- DO
NOT get out of your vehicle unless the officer asks you to.
- Keep
your hands on the steering wheel where they can be seen. Do not
make any sudden movements toward the floor or the passenger side.
This is for your safety as well as the officer.
- Always be polite and respectful.
Do not get into an argument. The first words spoken during a
traffic stop usually set the tone and the outcome of the stop.
- When
the officer comes to your car window, he/she will usually ask
for your driver’s license and proof of insurance. You should
give them to the officer. If you do not have the items, explain
this to the officer.
- During the stop, the officer
should tell you the reason for the stop. If he does not, you
may ask him.
- The
officer will return to the squad car to check the items for validity
and for any wants or warrants. You
should remain in your vehicle during this time.
- If
you do not agree with the reason for the stop, you should calmly
advise the officer, but do not argue with him.
- You do have
the right to go to court to contest the ticket.
- If
a police officer asks to search your vehicle, you have the right
to refuse. If you do not agree to a search, you should make that
clear to the officer. However, if the police have probable cause
that you or your vehicles were involved in a crime, they may
search your vehicle without your permission.
POLICE PROCEDURES – In
general, you should expect:
- The
officer should be polite, courteous, respectful and professional
- The
officer should give you his or her name.
- If
asked, the officer should provide their name and identification
number.
- The
officer will not stop you without reasonable suspicion of illegal
activity and will tell you the reason for the stop.
- That
the police will not arrest a person unless a crime was committed
or there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed.
- In
the Village of Bradley if you are stopped for an alleged violation
of the Illinois Vehicle Code, you will be issued either a Warning
Ticket or Uniform Citation. The officer is compelled by department
policy and state statute to record details of the stop and submit
those details in citation form.
QUESTIONS & COMPLAINTS
- If
you have a question about the stop or your treatment, you should
contact the police department and speak to the officer in charge.
If you are still not satisfied, you may ask the supervisor how
you can file a formal written complaint.
- You
may also send a complimentary letter to the department if you
feel the officer was particularly helpful.
- If
you believe your rights were violated, you may wish to speak
with an attorney.
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