It happens to the best of us, you’re driving down Bangerter Highway in Salt Lake City, you’re in a rush because you woke up late and you’re trying to get to work on time, when suddenly, red and blue lights are flashing behind you. You know what it means. Pulling over on the side of the road is simple, you just make your way to the furthest right lane and pull over on the shoulder of the road, but what do you do on a busy highway?
Pulling over while on the highway is a little more complicated, because pulling over on the wrong side can put you and the officer at risk of a personal injury in the event of an auto accident; it may be slightly harder for an attorney to help you if were the reason an officer was injured. Here are some tips on what to do if you’re pulled over by the state highway patrol.
Make Sure You Let the Police Know You Acknowledge Them
If you’re being pulled over but you notice that there isn’t a proper shoulder to use, turn on your hazards to let the officer know you’re aware of their presence. They will usually know that you’re just trying to find a safe place to pull over, just make sure that you don’t speed up.
Most times, officers will pull you over when they spot the appropriate place to do so, however always keep this tip in mind if you’re being asked to pull over on the busiest parts of the highway.
Use Wide Shoulder and Off Ramps
What you should be looking for when it comes to a safe place to pull over is space between you and the farthest right lane. Places like wide shoulders and off ramps are the perfect place to pull over, since there will be enough room for you and the officer, as well as enough space for the officer to leave his vehicle safely and avoid a personal injury.
The key in pulling over safely on the highway is making sure that you won’t put yourself or the officer at risk.