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Colorado law enforcement may pull you over while driving only if they has reasonable suspicion that you have committed a crime or a traffic violation. Further, Colorado state courts have held that an officer may not pull you over simply to view your driver’s license.

What To Do If You’re Pulled Over

During a Colorado traffic stop, there are certain things you need to be aware of:

• Upon the officer’s request, you will be required to show your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
• You do not have to answer any questions and do have the right to say that you wish to remain silent. Always assert your rights clearly and try to have at least one witness present.
• You should always keep your hands where the police officer can see them.
• If you are asked to exit your car, do so, then close the door. Failure to do so might prompt the officer to argue that by leaving an open door, you consented to a search of your vehicle.
• If the officer says that you are not free to go, you are being detained. In Colorado, the police may detain you for a reasonable period of time if there is a reasonable suspicion that you have committed a crime.
• Being detained is not the same as being arrested, although an arrest may follow.

Colorado is one of several states that have a “stop and identify” law, meaning that law enforcement officers have the authority to require you to identify yourself if the officer reasonably suspects that you are committing, have committed, or are about to commit a crime. However, the law expressly prohibits officers from obtaining your social security number during the stop.

Contact a Colorado Criminal Defense Law Firm Today

If you were pulled over in Colorado and wonder whether your rights may have been violated, Denver criminal defense attorney Michael T. Kossen, P.C. has defended Colorado drivers against traffic violation charges since 1991, and will ensure that your rights are protected. Contact us online or call (303) 791-6500 to schedule your free initial consultation today.