A traffic stop and/or roadblock can turn your day upside down in a matter of seconds. Blue lights are flashing, your hands are sweating, your heart is racing, and before you know it, you’re face-to-face with law enforcement.
Whether you were speeding, had a broken taillight, or did nothing wrong at all, how you handle the stop can make all the difference.
At Coxwell & Associates, we have represented countless Mississippians whose traffic stops or roadblock encounters escalated to criminal charges and arrest. We have also represented individuals who suffered severe bodily injury from law enforcement officers during routine stops. Based on experience, here are the top 5 mistakes people make during a traffic stop — and how to avoid them.
1. Talking Too Much
Like in grade school, talking too much during a traffic stop is a “no-no.” Nerves can make you chatty. Many people think explaining themselves will make things better, but often it does the opposite.
- Saying “I only had one drink” can lead to a DUI investigation.
- Admitting “I was just texting for a second” could result in a citation.
- Making conflicting statements in honest error could make officers suspicious and lead to probable cause for more invasive questioning.
- Even small details can be misinterpreted or used against you later.
Better approach: Answer questions politely but keep it short. Provide license, registration, and insurance — and nothing more unless necessary.
2. Consenting to a Search
Often, when officers ask for consent to search a person’s vehicle, people allow officers to search their car. Many do not realize it (or do not think of it in the heat of the moment), but you have a CHOICE. You have constitutional rights which protect you from unreasonable and unlawful searches.
If an officer asks for your consent to search your vehicle, that means he likely does not have automatic legal grounds. Officers typically do not ask for your consent to search out of politeness. Once you consent, anything found can and will be used against you.
Better approach: Politely but firmly respond, “I do not consent to a search.”
3. Being Rude or Confrontational
It’s frustrating to be pulled over, but losing your temper only makes things worse.
- Aggression can escalate a routine stop into an arrest or even physical injury.
- Sarcasm, hostility, or refusal to cooperate invites more scrutiny.
Better approach: Stay calm, keep your hands visible, and be respectful — even if you feel the stop is unfair. You can fight it later in court, not on the side of the road.
4. Forgetting Your Rights
Too many drivers do not understand their constitutional protections.
- You do not have to answer questions like “Where are you coming from?” or “Have you been drinking?”
- You do not have to consent to a vehicle search.
- You do have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic identification and documents.
Better approach: Learn your rights ahead of time. Practice polite but firm phrases like, “I’d like to remain silent” or “Am I free to go?”
5. Trying to Run or Resist
The biggest — and most dangerous — mistake is trying to flee, argue physically, or resist.
- Running from the police is a crime.
- Resisting, even passively, can quickly turn into an arrest or worse.
Better approach: Stay put, stay calm, and if you believe your rights were violated, handle it later with an attorney.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Yourself After a Traffic Stop
Most traffic stops end with a warning or ticket, but when mistakes are made, they can escalate into searches, arrests, or criminal charges.
At Coxwell & Associates, we have represented Mississippians in cases stemming from traffic stops, such as DUI or drug possession – and we have represented Mississippians who have been wrongfully arrested or suffered severe physical injury at the hands of law enforcement.
If you or your loved one made a mistake and now face criminal charges, or if you were a victim of police abuse, don’t panic or suffer in silence. The right lawyer can make all the difference.
Contact Coxwell & Associates today for skilled representation and guidance.
