Stopped By Traffic Officer? Know Your Rights As A Driver in Canada

Have you ever been stopped by a Traffic officer while driving? If not then you might need to know your rights if in future you get stopped by a traffic cop. Being stopped by traffic officers can be a stressful experience for any driver. 


At A1 Advance Driving School, we teach aspiring drivers about their rights as a driver in Canada. Connect with us by searching driving school near me and get the best driving training. 


If ever stopped by a traffic cop for a routine traffic violation or random stop your knowledge of your rights will help you in smooth interaction with law enforcement. Various driving school in Cochrane teach new drivers about the authorities of traffic officers on duty. Keep reading to know your rights as a driver. 



Your Initial Interaction

New drivers usually panic when stopped by traffic cops. But if aware of your rights you do not need to be stressed when you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror signaling you to pull over. 


Stay calm and park your vehicle aside or to a safe location promptly. Turn off your engine and stay inside the vehicle unless asked by an officer to come out. Cooperate with the officer and answer all questions honestly.  

Your Rights During the Stop

As a driver in Canada, you have specific rights that protect you during a traffic stop. If unaware of these rights you might face difficulties. 


Right to Ask Questions: While driving in any jurisdiction no traffic cops can stop you from asking questions. You can ask the officer for clarification regarding the reason for the stop and any instructions provided.


Right to Remain Silent: If you do not want to answer the question asked by the officer you can remain silent. Drivers have the right to remain silent regarding the alleged offence. Beyond providing identification and vehicle documentation stay silent to answer questions that could prove you guilty. 


Right to Legal Representation: If you are detained following a traffic stop you have the right to hire a lawyer who will answer questions on your behalf. Follow this right if you feel it necessary.


Right to Be Informed of the Charges: As per Canadian traffic rules if a traffic cop arrests you they should share in detail the charges you will face based on violation of certain rules. 

Issuance of Tickets or Charges

A ticket will be issued by a traffic cop if you have committed a traffic offence. This ticket contains applicable fines and instructions for disputing the ticket if you choose to do so. Before signing understand the contents of the ticket. 

Handling a Traffic Violation

If issued a ticket, you have several options:


Pay the Fine: Sign the ticket and pay the specified fine within the designated timeframe.


Dispute the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued wrongly then you can defend yourself. If you have strong points to claim your safe side then you can dispute the ticket through the appropriate channels.


Attend Court: Handling a traffic violation you may choose to appear in court to contest the ticket. Hire a lawyer to seek legal advice if needed to prepare your defence.

Conclusion

Don't get frightened when stopped by a traffic officer in Canada if you understand your rights and responsibilities as a driver. By visiting the driving school near me you can learn rights and rules for drivers to handle a traffic violation. 


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