What to do if you get stopped

• Pull over to the right side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so

• Turn off your engine and turn on your interior light if it is dark

• Keep your hands visible, preferably on the steering wheel

• Wait for the officer to approach your vehicle

• Do not exit your vehicle unless asked to do so

• Provide your driver license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance when asked

• Tell the officer if you need to reach into a glove compartment, purse, or other area to retrieve documents

• You have the right to ask the officer why you were stopped

• You have the right to remain silent beyond providing identification

• You have the right to refuse a search of your vehicle (though officers may have legal authority to search in certain circumstances)

• You have the right to request the officer's name and badge number

• Missouri law requires all Patrol employees to properly identify themselves upon request

• Pay the fine by the date indicated on the citation

• Appear in court to contest the citation

• Contact the court listed on the citation for more information

• Slow down, activate your hazard lights, and drive to a well-lit, populated area

• Call 911 to verify the traffic stop

• Look for an official uniform, badge, and marked patrol vehicle

• Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers drive clearly marked vehicles and wear distinctive uniforms