It is important to understand the inherent risk posed to both officer and citizen when an officer is performing a traffic stop. Factors such as location, traffic volume, and time of day all play a significant role. If you believe that you are being signaled to stop by the police, you should immediately pull the right shoulder or as far to the right as possible and stop. Texas Transportation Code 545.156 states:
"An operator, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall:
- Yield the right-of-way;
- Immediately drive to a position parallel to and as close as possible to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection; and;
- Stop and remain standing until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed."
By adhering to this law, the overall safety of the stop can be significantly increased. The Schertz Police Department recommends that you acknowledge the officer's intent to stop. This can be done by simply reducing speed, signaling your intent to pull over, or activating your emergency flashers. Next, you should calmly and safely begin changing lanes to the right until you are able to stop in a safe location. Upon stopping, it is recommended that you turn on any interior lights if applicable and wait inside the vehicle for the officer to approach you. It is not recommended that you exit the vehicle and walk back to meet the officer. This may put you a significant risk to oncoming traffic, especially on the highway.