HOW TO HANDLE A TRAFFIC STOP LIKE A LAWYER

6 Things You Should (and Shouldn’t) Say: What every Missouri driver needs to know when the lights flash behind them.

Getting pulled over can be nerve-wracking, whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth. But how you respond in those few minutes can make a huge difference, not just in whether you get a ticket, but in how any future legal case unfolds.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys have seen it all. We’ve represented drivers who made their situation better by staying calm and informed and others who talked themselves into bigger problems. Here’s how to handle a traffic stop like a lawyer, including six things you should and should never say.

DO SAY:  “Good evening, officer.” (Then stay quiet)

Start with polite, neutral communication. A simple “Hello” or “Good evening” is enough. After that, say very little. The less you say, the less they can use later.

Why it matters: Everything you say is potentially recorded and admissible in court. Keep things respectful but minimal. Let your lawyer do the talking later.

DON’T SAY: “I didn’t do anything wrong!”

This defensive response almost never helps. It can escalate tension and may sound combative. Even if you believe you’re innocent, don’t argue your case on the roadside.

Better approach: Stay calm, keep your hands visible, and comply with basic requests like providing your license and insurance.

DO SAY: “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?”

This is a powerful but respectful way to understand your legal practice position. If the officer says you’re not being detained, you can ask to leave. If you are being detained, then you know your rights have shifted.

Tip from a Missouri traffic defense lawyer: Ask this only once and calmly. Don’t argue or press the issue—just note their response.

DON’T SAY: “I only had one drink.”

Huge mistake. Admitting to even a small amount of alcohol gives the officer probable cause to begin a DUI investigation, even if you’re well under the limit.

Our advice: Never admit to any drinking, drug use, or fatigue. You have the right to remain silent beyond identifying information.

DO SAY: “I do not consent to a search.”

Unless police have a warrant, your permission, or probable cause, they typically cannot search your vehicle. If you’re asked, clearly and calmly say: “I do not consent to any searches.”

Why it matters: Even if the officer proceeds, your statement preserves your rights and can be a valuable part of your defense.

DON’T SAY “I know my rights!” (Unless you actually do)

Trying to “lawyer up” at the roadside without knowledge or confidence can make things worse. It comes across as aggressive or performative.

Instead, quietly invoke your rights when appropriate. You can decline to answer questions or request a lawyer without theatrics.

Bonus Tip: Record the Interaction (If Legal and Safe)

In Missouri, you are legally allowed to record the traffic stop as long as it doesn’t interfere with the officer’s duties. Many drivers now use dash cams or start recording on their phones.

Just be transparent. Say, “For my protection, I’m recording this stop.” Most officers will not object.

DON’T HESITATE. CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED MISSOURI TRAFFIC DEFENSE LAWYER

If your stop results in a citation, DWI charge, search, or arrest, you need to call a Missouri traffic defense lawyer near you as soon as possible. At Speeding Ticket KC, we can help by:

• Reviewing the officer’s conduct for legal violations
• Suppressing statements made without proper Miranda warnings
• Challenging improper searches or probable cause claims
• Defending you in traffic or criminal court
• Negotiating reduced charges to protect your license and record

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC FOR A FREE CASE EVALUATION

At Speeding Ticket KC, our team of affordable and experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys work hard to protect your rights—from the moment of the stop to the final verdict. Don’t face the Missouri criminal justice system alone. Call Speeding Ticket KC today to speak with an experienced Missouri traffic defense attorney and learn how to turn a bad stop into a manageable outcome.