Why do cops do zig zag on the freeway?

Removing hazards from the roadway is part of a CHP officer’s duties. Therefore, from time to time, you may see an officer driving a patrol vehicle in a zigzag motion, crossing all lanes of the freeway. This zigzag motion is intended to keep the motorists behind the CHP vehicle.

Why do police slow down freeway traffic?

These are known as “traffic breaks” and CHP does it to slow cars down to create a gap in the flow of traffic a few miles down. Common reasons for this are to allow a separate cruiser to clear an object on the road, investigate an accident scene, or to allow construction vehicles to maneuver.

Why do police cars swerve on highway?

Usually they are performed by highway patrol in order to create a less hazardous driving environment. Essentially, a traffic break is the creation of traffic separation by a traffic patrol officer slowly swerving back and forth across all lanes of a highway, not allowing other vehicles to pass.

Why do police officers touch the back of a vehicle?

If the police officer believes they are in a dangerous situation as they pull you over, they may touch the backend of your vehicle on the way to your window to make sure the trunk is latched. It might sound bizarre, but this tactic ensures that no one is hiding in the trunk and could pop out.

Why do police officers touch tail light?

Police need to be able to examine a vehicle quickly before approaching it, and touching/tapping a tail light can tell cops a lot about the person being pulled over. For instance, this tactic can give the officer an idea of the driver’s mental state.

What happens if a cop pulls you over for no reason?

Just because the cop pulls you over or gives you a ticket doesn’t mean the cop is in the right. Maybe the light was actually yellow when your car was in the intersection, or the nearest speed limit sign had been knocked over. Or the cop might suspect your car is stolen because you’re driving in an area with a high risk of theft.

What do police need to pull you over for speeding?

For example, an officer needs a reason, called “reasonable suspicion,” to pull you over in the first place. That can be anything from speeding or not signaling a turn to having expired plates or a broken tail light.

Can you get pulled over for driving in the left lane?

If you are all alone on the road, and have been driving in the left lane for a while, albeit even going the speed limit, it gives police officers a reason to at least take note of you. And when trying to avoid being pulled over all together, being noticed for any reason is unwanted.

Can a police officer search your car during a traffic stop?

And cops also need probable cause to search you or your car during a traffic stop. Keep in mind a few key protections and how they apply if you’re stopped by police. You can wait to pull over right away if it’s not safe. Officers require reasonable suspicion to pull you over. You can call on your Fifth Amendment right to stay quiet.