Andrew Simko is a criminal defense attorney and former Florida prosecutor. At this point in his career, he’s handled cases on both sides of the bench and specializes in DUI-related charges. He recently shared how drivers can better avoid getting pulled over by police in the first place. “An officer needs a reason to stop you,” Simko explains. “They can’t just stop you for any reason.”

Make sure your car is in good working order

If you’re driving around at 2 a.m. with a busted taillight, that defect alone is enough for a cop to initiate a traffic stop.

Dark tint and non-functioning turn signals or headlights are also reasons a police officer can pull you over.

Don’t overlook administrative items police officers often flag

If a police officer runs your plate and the registration is expired, or the owner of record has a suspended license, you’re much more likely to get pulled over.

Make sure your driver’s license, registration, insurance, and license plates are all in good standing. Otherwise, a police officer can easily choose to pull you over.

@floridadefenselawyer

The best way to avoid trouble on the road is to not get stopped in the first place. #trafficstop #attorney

♬ original sound – Florida Defense Lawyer

Follow traffic laws

Speeding, failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, and crossing a solid lane line are all valid reasons to get pulled over. Be sure you’re driving within all local laws.

“Your whole case can get thrown out.”

The defense attorney explains that if you get pulled over, and the police officer can’t articulate why they stopped you, the whole case can just get tossed when a judge reviews it.

Bottom line: Don’t give police officers a good reason to pull you over at all. Keep your car in good working order, make sure your vehicle paperwork and licensing are straight, and don’t break traffic laws.