Posted on Jul 23, 2022

General comments:

More police departments are equipping their officers with body cameras that record interactions between the police and the public. 

We suggest speaking calmly and clearly towards the officer.

If you are traveling, be aware that the law about carrying firearms may differ from state to state. 

Please familiarize yourself with those differences. handgunlaw.us has information about the laws in each state.

Interactions with law enforcement go smoother when everyone is polite.

Your actions during a traffic stop can lower or ramp up the perceived risk to the law enforcement officer.

Q: The police are stopping me, what should I do?

A: This is suggested:

Turn on your flashing / hazard lights (This indicates to the officer that you are pulling over).

Slow down and pull over when it is safe to do so.

Once you stop, turn your inside light on and keep hands on steering wheel.

Ask passengers to be calm and not to move around or reach for things.

Wait calmly for officer to arrive

Hand the officer your driver’s license and carry permit all at the same time.

If the officer asks 'are you carrying now?’

Say ‘yes and it is [specify location], how do you want me to proceed?’

Do not make extra motions, such as reach for the firearm, unless directed to do so.

Q: What is duty to inform?

A. It refers to whether you must tell an officer if you’re carrying a firearm. This varies from state to state. In Illinois, you do not have to tell the officer unless you are asked.

Original article: http://www.chicagogunsmatter.org/concealed-carry/40-what-to-do-in-a-traffic-stop