I'm constantly worried when I travel on the highway late at night. In my
                   area, a young woman was killed by a man masquerading himself as a
                   police officer. Here are some tips for both states and travelers for better
                   handling the unmarked police car situation.

                   What States Should Do:

                   1) States should not allow unmarked cars to pull over highway drivers
                   except under the following conditions:
                   a) The driver is obviously drunk, incapacitated, or driving more than 30
                   mph over the given speed limit
                   b) There is a warrant for the arrest of the driver, or the driver is involved
                   in the current assignment of the police in the unmarked car.

                   2) States should require a small identifier tag on the front of all unmarked
                   cars that are in any way involved in highway pullovers. These numbers
                   should read correctly when you look in your rearview mirror.

                   3) All officers driving an unmarked car should be aware of the laws
                   regarding their status and vehicle.
 

                   For the Driver:

                   1) If an unmarked car attempts to pull you over, you should slow down,
                   get in the right lane safely, and put on your 4 way blinkers. This let's the
                   cop know that you're acknowledging him or her.

                   2) You aren't required to stop until you are either in a public place, or
                   until the officer's identity has been verified. Slowly pull off the closest exit
                   and find a gas station or other such area with outdoor attendants. If you
                   have a cell phone, dial 911 immediately and ask for verification of the
                   unmarked vehicle. You may also request that a marked car arrive at a
                   specified location before you stop. You can also ask if there are any
                   trooper exits or police stations in the vicinity.

                   3) When you are pulled over, ask the officer to see his or her badge
                   before handing over your license. Do not turn away or rustle through your
                   wallet or purse until the officer's identity is confirmed. Be aware that
                   there are many fake badges circulating.

                   4) Know your rights! Go to www.aclu.org and download a pdf format copy
                   of tips for procedure when pulled over by a police officer.

                   5) Follow the rules, and/or be careful. Try not to speed, because this will
                   provoke police in general to pull you over. Try to stay awake and alert at
                   all times.

                   6) If you're traveling late at night, let someone know where you're coming
                   from, where you're going, and when you will arrive there.

                   7) Owning a cell phone, even if just for emergencies, is extremely helpful.
                   You can always call for help or request assistance.

                   8) In some states, unmarked cars are not even used. Contact your
                   state's Department of Transportation to find your state's policies
                   regarding unmarked cars.

                   Best of all, use common sense. If you feel uncomfortable, make sure you
                   do something about it.

Writing Main

All writing is copyright its author, 2002.