Most drivers will at some point in their lives be pulled over for a traffic offense. We expect the inconvenience and cost, and perhaps the need to take a defensive driving class. But there are a number of things you should know that can help you reduce or avoid these and other more serious consequences.
Here are some important things you need to know:
• Your behavior and attitude when you are pulled over for a traffic stop can greatly impact the outcome. Always be polite and cooperative no matter how you actually feel. When asked questions, be honest or say nothing.

• Paying a traffic ticket it is an automatic admission and adjudication of guilt that is entered into your record. This information can then be used in future cases and it can also be used by insurance companies to make rate determinations.

• Offenses such as speeding (20mph or less over the limit), running a red light, careless driving, or failure to yield are considered civil, or non-criminal offenses. However, this doesn't mean that you simply pay a fine and the consequences end there. These infractions add points to your record and can ultimately result in the suspension of your driving privileges.

• You may be stopped for a relatively minor civil traffic infraction and then find yourself being charged with a criminal offense. The most common criminal offenses resulting from routine traffic stops include:
• Driving with a suspended license
• Not wearing corrective lenses when your license includes this restriction
• Having the wrong tag on your car
• And of course DUI
• Being pulled over for a minor traffic infraction can even result in the discovery of evidence that leads to a felony charge. Examples include:
o The discovery of a gun without a concealed weapon permit
o Other illegal weapons, drugs, or contraband

You should not give permission to have your car searched but if an officer decides to search anyway you should politely request that the officer make a note indicating that you declined permission to search.