When a traffic police officer is drawing up an traffic violation, he may suggest that the driver accompany him to the patrol car. In practice, many drivers accept this offer. Yet there is a widespread belief among legally minded citizens that the driver is not required to step into the vehicle at all.
Some people even advise replying in a cautious, almost evasive way: “Please prepare the protocol here, and I will sign it on the street.” The question then becomes: why does this recommendation exist, and what are the potential consequences?
Expert opinion
Sergei Smirnov, lawyer:
In truth, a driver is not compelled to enter the patrol car. However, once the inspector has begun the process of drawing up a violation, including recording the incident, taking explanations, or making decisions, the driver can be asked to perform certain procedural actions inside the interior of the official vehicle. It is a request, not a compulsion. Current administrative regulations governing traffic policing do not grant inspectors the authority to require such actions inside the car as a formal rule.
From a legal standpoint, declining to sit in the company car cannot itself serve as a basis for administrative liability. Still, modern service vehicles used by police officers are equipped with video recorders, which acts as a strong incentive for courteous communication. The officer can clearly explain the article of the Code of Administrative Violations that applies and outline the driver’s rights. No one swallows the idea of bribes when the camera is rolling—transparency makes it harder for improper pressure to occur.
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Interacting with traffic police on the road is a common experience for drivers, even those who habitually follow the rules. For offenders, the stakes are higher. Refusing to enter the patrol car tends to complicate matters and can prolong the process of registering the violation. The better approach is to engage in a calm, cooperative exchange and keep the interaction constructive.
Entering the inspector’s car in a orderly fashion can actually be more practical. Inside the vehicle, the protocol can be prepared, read, and signed without delays that might occur if the discussion continues outside. The presence of cameras helps ensure that explanations are clear, procedures are followed, and rights are preserved. In the end, this can lead to a quicker, smoother resolution and less confusion for both sides.
A photo: Egor Aleev/TASS