Series 16: Dealing With Law Enforcement as a Professional Driver

No matter how experienced you are, every truck driver will deal with law enforcement on the road. From weigh stations to roadside inspections to random stops, how you handle these situations can make all the difference. Respect, preparation, and professionalism go a long way.

1. What should you do when pulled over in your truck?

When you see the lights in your mirror, stay calm. Safely slow down, signal, and pull over to the right in the first safe spot available. Keep your seatbelt on until the officer approaches, roll down your window, and keep your hands visible. Speak politely and clearly.
 Avoid arguing on the side of the road — if you disagree, you can contest it later in court. On the road, professionalism always wins.

2. How should  you handle a weigh station and roadside inspections? (This is mentioned briefly in a earlier series but here is some additional information)

Always enter weigh stations when required, and don’t take the gamble of blowing past one. Keep your paperwork neat and accessible: CDL, medical card, registration, logbook/ELD, and shipping documents.
 A clean cab, polite attitude, and organized paperwork set the tone for a quick inspection. If your truck is in good shape, most inspections are over faster than you think.

3. What are your rights as a CDL holder?

Officers have the right to inspect your truck, logs, and paperwork. They do not have the right to treat you with disrespect — and you have the right to remain calm and professional at all times. If you feel something is unfair, document it and fight it the right way.
 Remember: your CDL is your livelihood. Protect it by knowing your rights and your responsibilities.

4. What mindset keeps you out of trouble with law enforcement?

Respect. Even if the officer is having a bad day, your calm and professional response will keep things from escalating. Don’t take it personally — they’re doing their job, and your job is to keep moving freight without unnecessary delays or violations.
 At the end of the day, it’s not about “winning” — it’s about protecting your CDL, your record, and your reputation.

✅ Truckers who stay calm, prepared, and professional have fewer problems on the road. Law enforcement is part of the job — handle it right, and you’ll keep rolling smoothly.

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✍️ Note: More handbook content is being added every Wednesday. Check back soon for the next series in this guide.

Published by Heartland Patriot

This Site is being created to allow me to publish my 47 years of professional driving and work experiences in the transportation industry. During these writings I will communicate the working life I experienced in both the LTL (Less Than Truckload) industry and the Independent Contractor/Owner-Operator industry as well.

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