Should You Make A Phone Call During A Traffic Stop?

Making a phone call during a traffic stop can be risky. 

Police officers may view reaching for a phone as a threat or a sign you are hiding something or signaling someone to come to the scene. Using your phone can quickly escalate a routine stop into something more serious.

Police officers make immediate judgments when you reach for or use a phone during a traffic stop. Their primary concern is safety and control of the situation and to make sure your attention is not diverted during questioning.

Officers will always make a threat assessment of your movements and speech: Reaching into pockets or bags for a phone looks identical to reaching for a hidden weapon. 

Using a phone signals that you are not paying full attention to their commands, which increases tension. Typing or looking down can make an officer think you are trying to hide contraband or coordinate with someone. 

An officer might order you to put the phone down immediately. 

Picking up a non-emergency call can be interpreted as a lack of respect, defiance, or a refusal to cooperate.

Ask for permission before reaching for your phone if your digital license or insurance is on it. Narrate your actions clearly, telling the officer exactly where the phone is located. Avoid sudden, sharp movements when handling any device in your vehicle.

You generally have the right to record police in public spaces. This right does not mean you can use your phone whenever you want. An officer can order you to stop recording or put the phone away if it interferes with safety.

Distracting the officer can lead to charges of obstruction or failure to obey.

Best Practices During a Traffic Stop By Law Enforcemen

Keep both hands visible on the steering wheel.
Tell the officer before you reach for your phone to get insurance or documents.
Wait until the stop is completely over to make non-emergency calls.
Record video from a fixed, visible mount if you choose to record the stop.