Say This, Not That: 25 Word-for-Word Scripts for Police Encounters

1. 1
   The Three RulesSafety first. Comply with your body, assert with your words. Fight it later, in court.
2. 2
   The traffic stop“Do you know why I stopped you?”, your documents, the window, “Step out of the car.”
3. 3
   Alcohol & DUI questions“I smell alcohol,” field sobriety tests, roadside vs. official breath test, checkpoints.
4. 4
   Searches & detention“Can I search your car?”, the K-9 wait, “Am I free to go?”, ID, passengers, your phone.
5. 5
   High-stakes momentsShouted commands, arrest, Miranda, police at your door, recording, lawful carry.
6. 6
   Myth vs. factEleven beliefs that hurt people, like “they have to read me my rights.”
7. 7
   Notes for your familyOlder drivers, hearing loss and medical conditions, and how to teach a teen driver.
8. 8
   Print-and-keep toolsTear-out wallet card, glovebox checklist and a one-page roadside script.
9. 9
   Worksheets & referenceAfter-incident report, “my state’s rules” fill-in, glossary and Supreme Court case index.

General legal information only; not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created. State laws differ and change. Nothing in this guide guarantees any outcome, including avoiding a ticket, search or arrest. The guide never advises fleeing, resisting, lying to police or refusing lawful orders. Independent publication, not affiliated with or endorsed by any police department, court, bar association or government agency.