How to Act When Being Pulled Over

No matter how long you’ve been driving, getting pulled over by a cop can be a nerve-racking experience. The first thing to remember is to be polite! Arguing with a cop isn’t going to get you anywhere.

Pull over to the side of the road

When you see a cop car; first try to remain calm, turn on your turn signal, and try to stop as far right or left as possible so that the Officer can stand next to your car without putting themselves in danger. Turn off your engine and if it’s dark, turn on your interior lights.

Avoid giving the officer a reason to search your car

If you’re rustling about in your car, the officer might think you’re trying to hide something. If anything illegal is in immediate view, like an open bottle of alcohol; he or she is allowed to take it.

You should never get out of your car

Only get out if the officer tells you to. They will consider it a threat if you get out of the car. Remember that many police officers die when pulling over a car; it’s when they are most vulnerable.

When talking to the Officer

Roll down the window completely. Be polite and honest. Try not to cry or argue with the officer because most of the time you can’t talk yourself out of a ticket. And you might just annoy the officer even more!

Take the ticket and go on your way

If you get a ticket keep it in a safe place. Don’t forget to signal and check your mirrors, when entering the road again. Remember police officers are just looking out for your safety and try to protect the safety of others.

Here at Basil Resale Sheridan, we remind you to always drive safe. If you got a ticket for a brake light, headlight or any other malfunctioning part; don’t forget to make an appointment with our amazing service team or just stop by at Basil Resale Sheridan 4131 Sheridan Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221.

Caroline Cary

Just got into a car accident? Don’t Panic!

There are more than 6 million car accidents each year in the United States, so you are not alone. Take a deep breath and look around. If you are able to see that you are not seriously wounded, follow this simple procedure that is vital to making your case for the accident report and for insurance purposes.

1)1st pull the car off the road so as not to cause any further accidents.
2)Assess injury for yourself and for the driver of the other vehicle.
3)Call 911 for anyone who is injured or just to file a report.
4)Make sure both parties exchange information such as name, address, phone number, insurance policy number, driver license number, and license plate number. Do not mention that the accident was your fault even if you feel as it was your fault. It is up to the police to determine who’s liable.
5)File an accident report with your local police station. An accident report will help insurance companies determine who will pay for the damages. There is a 10 day window to file the report to DMV so file it quickly!
6)TAKE PICTURES. In an age with camera phones make use of them! Photograph the condition of both vehicles and make sure every detail has been taken down. This may help your case. Buy a disposable camera and keep it in your dashboard just in case.
7)If there were witnesses, make sure you take their name down and contact information so they can help you piece together the claim. Contact them afterwards to get a signed statement of what and how it happened.

Finally, you have the option of whether to pursue the claim through the insurance company or settle the damages privately. Regardless of which method you choose, always follow the procedure above to minimize the risk of unfair claims and serious disputes.

At Basil Resale Center, We offer auto repair services at a very reasonable price, and if you encounter a serious accident, come to Basil Resale Sheridan to find the right replacement.