There are many different reasons why you might be stopped by the police.

• The most likely reason why people are stopped while driving a motor vehicle is for violations of the Illinois Vehicle Code. These violations fall into two categories; moving and equipment violations.
• You, or your vehicle, may match the description of a suspect in a crime.
• You may have witnessed a crime.
• The officer might think you are in trouble or need assistance. Your trunk may be open, or something may be hanging from, or be on top of your vehicle.

Each traffic stop is unique and the police officer must alter his/her response to fit the circumstance.

Generally, a Police Officer:

• will provide his or her name and badge number upon request
• will present proper identification when not in uniform
• will inform a person of the reason(s) for being stopped
• will ask a person to provide a driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration

Questions, Compliments and Complaints

If you have a question about procedures or a complaint about your treatment, contact the police department and ask to speak with a supervisor at (708) 206-3420 or ask for a complaint form, in person, at the police department. You may also send a letter of compliment if you feel the officer was particularly helpful in your situation.

If you are stopped by the police while driving, you may feel confused, anxious, or even angry. These are natural feelings, but remember, traffic stops can also be stressful and dangerous for police officers. Each year a number of law enforcement officers are killed or seriously injured while making "routine traffic stops." Police officers are especially vulnerable during the hours of darkness.

With this in mind there are things that you, as a law abiding citizen, can do to help lessen the unpleasantness of the experience.

• Red & blue lights and/or a siren mean pull over to the right where it is safe and where you will not block traffic.
• Remain in your vehicle, keep your hands where the officer can see them and follow his or her instructions.
• Keep your hands on the steering wheel, so the officer can see them.
• Avoid any sudden movements, especially reaching under your seat, or rear seat or passenger side of the vehicle.
• Do not immediately reach for your license or other documents until the officer requests them. Illinois State Law requires drivers to show their license, registration, and insurance card upon request.
• If the stop occurs during darkness, turn on your dome or interior light so the officer can easily see that all is in order. The officer will use a bright spotlight or flashlight to illuminate you and your car.
• If your documents are out of reach, tell the officer where they are before you reach for them.
• If there are passengers in your vehicle, encourage them to remain quiet and cooperate with instructions. Depending on the circumstances, officers may request identification from passengers. You, as the operator, are responsible for your vehicle and its occupants.
• It is reasonable and legal for an officer to require that you and/or your passengers get out of the vehicle, but do not get out until he or she asks you.
• The officer may issue you a ticket. If you feel the reason is vague or unclear, ask the officer for details.
• Avoid becoming argumentative. Arguing will not change the officer’s decision. If you want to contest the violation, you will have an opportunity to address the matter in court.
• Be honest with the officer. If you really did not see the stop sign, or were unaware of the speed limit, let the officer know. Being honest about any situation never hurts.
• Many departments use one-officer patrol cars. It would not be unusual to see two or three marked units on a routine traffic stop.