If there is one thing that any motorist wants to avoid, it’s being pulled over by the police.
At any given time, this is a mood killer for even the most cautious of drivers.
“It is important to know whatever the situation may be, you always have rights and need to exercise them,” said Warrant Officer Hilter Ngwenya, spokesperson for Muldersdrift police.
He offers some advice if you are ever pulled over at a roadblock:
- You have the right to request the identity and authority of the official – ask for official identification.
- You have the right to be treated with dignity; the official cannot swear at you or threaten you unduly.
- Random searches of your body or your property are not allowed. An official should have a search warrant or valid belief that you have been involved in a crime.
- You are allowed to make a phone call for legal assistance to friends/family to arrange for help on your behalf.
- If you have been arrested, you have to appear before a court within 48 hours, or if the 48 hours expire on a weekend or public holiday, on the first court day thereafter.
- You have the right to nominate a legal representative of your choice.
It is very easy to feel intimidated and even paranoid when you get pulled over by the police, but it is essential that you remember the pointers above.
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