What should a commercial driver do when stopped by law enforcement?

When a commercial driver is stopped by law enforcement, the appropriate action is to pull over safely and comply with the officer's instructions. This is important for several reasons. First, maintaining safety for both the driver and the officer is paramount; pulling over allows the officer to approach the vehicle safely. By complying with the officer's instructions, the driver demonstrates respect for the law and ensures an orderly interaction, which can help prevent misunderstandings or escalation during the stop.

Moreover, following this protocol also aligns with legal obligations. Ignoring the officer would not only be unsafe but could lead to legal consequences, such as charges related to evading law enforcement. Similarly, simply parking and waiting for the officer to approach may create confusion about the driver's intentions, which could lead to unnecessary concern for the officer’s safety. Opening the door to greet the officer immediately could also present risks; without explicit instruction, this action might cause the officer to feel unprepared or threatened. Overall, safely pulling over and adhering to the officer's directions is the best practice during a traffic stop.