Recent Lubbock Arrest Sheds Light on Traffic Stop Laws in Texas

A reckless driver has recently been arrested in Lubbock, raising the concern over the proper protocol when a police officer initiates a traffic stop. In Texas, there's more to it than just pulling over when you can. Here's the full rundown.

Lubbock Motorcyclist Injured and Arrested

But first, what's the number-one thing NOT to do when a cop flashes their lights at you to pull over? That's right, speed away and try to flee.

One man in Lubbock didn't get the memo and was sent to the hospital after speeding away from a cop car on his motorcycle.

It all started along Mac Davis Lane and Avenue X after 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29. The motorcyclist ignored the LPD officer and took off southbound on Avenue Q. He eventually lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into the center median, suffering moderate injuries.

Once treatment is complete at the hospital, the driver will face one charge of Evading on a Motor Vehicle. In Texas, this counts as a 3rd degree felony which comes with a punishment of 2 to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Keep up with the latest LPD press releases from the City of Lubbock website.

How to Properly Handle a Traffic Stop

Now, let's look at the proper way to handle a traffic stop in Texas, according to state law. First, when a cop tries to pull you over, you should always slow down and pull over as soon as you can safely do so. If you're on a highway, pull as far to the right shoulder as you can and turn on your hazard lights.

If you are driving on a city road, pulling off the road and into a public parking lot is the safest route to avoid impeding traffic. At night, make sure you turn your dome light on before the officer walks up.

As the officer approaches, keep your hands visible and on the steering wheel unless told otherwise. Never move suddenly when the officer is at your window, and always announce what you are going to do before reaching into your glove compartment, under the seat, etc.

What If There is No Safe Spot to Pull Over?

If you can't pull over off the road at that exact moment, then proceed slowly until the next opportunity to move off the road presents itself.

If you feel the driver of the vehicle flashing their lights isn't a real police officer, then here's what you should do. Turn on your hazards and drive slowly and under the speed limit while you call 911.

Stay on the phone with the 911 operator as you come to a stop off of the road in a well-lit area. You may then verify the identity of the officer as they approach your window with the operator on the line.

Never exit your vehicle during a traffic stop unless told otherwise. This will do nothing but escalate the situation. Also, you may notify the officer that you do not consent to a search of your person or of your car, but it is illegal to physically resist it.

If you feel that you have been illegally searched, you can report the conduct after the stop to the officer's department and follow the provided steps moving forward.

You should never confront or argue with an officer during a traffic stop. Any violation you believe they have committed should be addressed afterwards and before a judge. Signing a citation is not admitting guilt. Engaging in verbal or physical arguments will only end with your arrest, or worse.

So, be smart and stay cool when getting pulled over. Follow these steps and you should be good to go. Well, it'll sure damper your day, but hey, you've always got tomorrow.