How to Avoid Getting Pulled Over: 5 Simple Checks
A-MAX Editorial Team
Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent
Short answer
Most unnecessary traffic stops come from things you can fix before you drive. Keep your registration current, put your phone away, make sure your brake lights and headlights work, and use your turn signals every time. These simple habits keep you safer and give officers fewer reasons to pull you over.
Ever find yourself checking your rearview mirror, hoping those flashing lights aren't meant for you? We get it. Nobody likes an unexpected traffic stop. The good news is that many stops happen for simple reasons you can fix ahead of time. Here's a quick checklist to help you stay in the clear.
Is your registration up to date?
Think of your car's registration as its ID card. An expired registration (or sticker) is an easy reason for an officer to pull you over. Check the date, renew on time and keep your paperwork in the car. No one likes a mix-up, especially when it comes to paperwork.
Can using your phone get you pulled over?
Yes. Texts, calls and social media can wait. Put your phone away and focus on the road. It's safer for you and everyone around you, and it keeps you from drawing unwanted attention.
Do your brake lights work?
Working brake lights keep you safe and help you avoid unexpected stops. Ask a friend to stand behind your car while you press the brake, or back up toward a wall or window at night and look for the red glow. Replace any burned-out bulb right away.
Are you using your turn signals?
Let your blinkers do the talking. Signaling every turn and lane change lets other drivers know what you're about to do, keeps traffic moving smoothly and keeps you clear of unwanted traffic trouble.
Are your headlights working?
Working headlights help you see and be seen. Check that both headlights work, turn them on when it gets dark or the weather turns bad, and replace a dim or burned-out bulb before your next night drive.
Quick checklist before you drive
- Registration is current and in the car
- Phone is put away
- Brake lights work
- Turn signals work, and you use them every time
- Both headlights work
How A-MAX can help
Whether you have a license, a permit, a suspended license or no license at all, A-MAX Has Your Back. Walk into one of our 240+ offices or call 1-800-921-AMAX to talk with a friendly agent, in English or Spanish, about coverage that fits your situation.
About this page
Written by the A-MAX Editorial Team. Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent. We review and update it as state rules and carrier availability change.
Last updated October 29, 2026
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Besides speeding, many stops come from simple things like an expired registration, a burned-out brake light or headlight, not signaling, or using a phone while driving. Checking these before you head out gives officers fewer reasons to stop you.
At night, back up close to a garage door, wall or store window and press the brake. You should see a red glow reflected behind you. You can also ask a friend to stand behind the car while you brake and use your turn signals.
In many cases, yes. A-MAX works with drivers who have a permit, a suspended license or no license at all. An agent can review your situation and walk you through the options available in your state.
Keep your current registration and proof of insurance in the car, and carry your license or permit if you have one. Having these ready makes a stop quicker and less stressful. Ask your agent if a digital ID card works in your state.
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