Drivers do some really stupid things. Yet, despite the many dumb endeavors one could engage in while behind the wheel, just a few will result arrest and a trip to the police station. This may sound hard to believe, but it’s true. However, that doesn’t mean that getting arrested won’t happen under some circumstances. In this article we will examine some of the stupid things people do behind the wheel and discuss the only three that will get you in handcuffs.
Distracted Driving
One offence that’s stupid but likely won’t result in an arrest is distracted driving, as the folks at Antioch Automotive of Antioch, an IL-based Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram dealership say, this is something that’s reached epidemic proportions in recent years. While a few states have laws about putting a cellphone up to your ear while driving, there are no laws that say you can’t use one on “speaker phone.” Unfortunately, doing this can take your eyes off the road, as well as fooling around with your car accessories, infotainment system and other distractions. Don’t even get us started with eating while driving.
Reckless Driving
It is unusual to get arrested for reckless driving. A ticket is definitely more likely and the officer may have the option to impound your vehicle and make you get another ride home. Being put into handcuffs and arrested is unlikely, though.
Mouthing Off
It’s the same as being rude. Mouthing off to law enforcement isn’t a crime, even if it is a stupid thing to do. Think about it, swearing, yelling, or otherwise being disrespectful will only decrease your chances of getting away with a warning during a traffic stop. However, mouthing off does not lead to definite arrest.
What will get you arrested?
One way that you may be arrested is if there is a warrant for your arrest. The cop that pulls over your car will typically take your personal identification back to their cruiser and check to see if you’re wanted by any law enforcement agency. If they find out that you are wanted for a crime, you will likely be arrested and brought to jail for processing.
And, driving drunk or otherwise impaired definitely will get you arrested. If a police officer suspects that you are intoxicated, they have the legal right to pull you over and check you for intoxication. You may at least know of this routine. They will ask you to exit the vehicle, ask you some questions, and then ask you to perform a physical action such as walking a straight line. If the officer suspects that you are intoxicated, he/she will probably arrest you, put you in handcuffs and take you into custody. Your vehicle will towed from the place you left it.
Conclusion
Want to stay out of trouble? Put your cellphone away, keep your hands on the wheel and don’t drink and drive. If you do happen to get pulled over then be nice; a little courtesy goes a long way.