Most of us have been approached or pulled over by a law enforcement officer at some point in our lives. It can be an intimidating experience, but by knowing your rights you can avoid making detrimental decisions based on misinformation or fear.
If you are pulled over by an officer, you have the right not to answer any questions. You must show your driver’s license, proof of insurance and registration if asked to do so, and you must exit the car if asked to do so. But unless the officer has probable cause to search your car, the officer may not conduct a search without your consent. You can simply say “I do not give my consent.” If you are treated badly by the officer, write down the officer’s badge number and name (which you have a right to ask for.) Also, if you have any suspicion that the person who pulled you over is not actually an officer, lock your doors and call 911 to get verification.
To find out more, including your rights regarding arrests, searches and warrants, and traveling through airports, go to: http://www.aclu.org/files/kyr/kyr_english.pdf