Pathfinders for Autism
Today, rather than give you a traditional safe driving tip, I would like to make you all aware of an event that is occurring this week. On Wednesday, March 30th, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit along with law enforcement officers from allied agencies will be partnering with Pathfinders for Autism to perform traffic stop practice sessions for drivers and passengers with developmental disabilities. Drivers and passengers with a developmental disability who may be nervous about being pulled over are invited to attend. They will be placed into a simulated traffic stop situation so they can learn exactly what to expect when they get pulled over. In addition to the law enforcement that will be present, representatives from Pathfinders for Autism will also be on hand to answer questions and hand out materials the driver can keep in their vehicle in case they are ever pulled over for real.
Let’s face it. EVERYONE feels some level of anxiety when they see red and blue lights flashing in the rear-view mirror. In most cases the first question on a driver’s mind is “now what?” The first piece of advice is to understand that it is fine to be honest and tell the officer that you are nervous. You should also wait to retrieve items, such as your license and registration card, until the officer asks you for them. It is never a good idea to go reaching around inside the car without explaining what you are looking for first. Finally, even if you disagree with the reason why you were pulled over, try to remain calm. Once a citation is issued, it can only be resolved in court. This is your opportunity to plead your case. And if you aren’t sure why you have been stopped, just ask.
The purpose of the program tomorrow is to hopefully ease some anxieties and make drivers feel a little more calm when dealing with the police. (Although, in a perfect world everyone would obey all the traffic laws, and no one would need to be pulled over in the first place!)
If you or someone you know is interested in the Pathfinders for Autism event tomorrow, you can find more information at the link below
https://pathfindersforautism.org/traffic-stop-harford/
As always, if you have a question or concern, please leave it in the comments below. Also, if you have a specific concern with unsafe driving in your area, such as speeding, drag racing, etc., give us a call, send an email, or reach out on social media. Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org
@hcsotrafficsgt on Instagram