Why Did You Stop Me?

Moving Violations are the most common reasons a vehicle is stopped.  Some moving violations are not listed in the Rules of the Road. The Illinois Vehicle Code, Chapter 625 of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, is the authoritative source of driving law.

Registration or Equipment Violations are other reasons a vehicle may be stopped.  It is not uncommon for a driver to be in violation of a law without knowing it.  It is your responsibility to know the laws governing driving privileges.

Criminal Investigation often involves searching for a “get-away” car.  Your vehicle may match the description of a suspect’s vehicle.  Hanging out in the area of closed businesses, may be seen as suspicious and could involve criminal activity.  Many calls are received from the public, reporting suspicious vehicles.

Safety Concerns are other reasons an officer may stop your vehicle.  For instance, your trunk may be open, something may be hanging from under your vehicle, or you may have left items on the roof of your vehicle. 

Steps to Follow if you are Stopped:

1. Slow and begin to pull to the right. Stop your vehicle as far out of the traffic lane as possible. If you intend to drive a very short distance further, to reach a parking lot or other safe area, turn on your flashers and motion to the officer that you are going to comply.
2. Stay in your vehicle and at night; turn on your interior light. Good lighting assists in good communications. Relax and remain in your vehicle. If you leave the vehicle, you subject yourself and the officer to the dangers of traffic.
3. Keep your hands in view, preferably on the steering wheel.  Do not make sudden quick movements. Wait for the officer to explain the reason for the stop, and request your license and proof of insurance.
4. Provide the proper documentation. When driving a motor vehicle, you must have in your possession:
   • A Valid Driver’s License.
   • Proof of Insurance for the Vehicle.

If you are stopped and do not have these items with you, a citation may be issued.

As the driver, you are responsible for the conduct of all the occupants of the vehicle. This can include such things as passengers wearing seat belts, littering, open alcohol, or creating a noise disturbance. It is a violation of the Illinois Vehicle Code, if your car stereo can be heard 75 feet or more from your vehicle.

If you do not agree with the citation or the officer’s demeanor, do not argue at the scene. All citizens have the right to question their citation before a judge. The Naperville Police Department has an internal affairs system in place to investigate citizen complaints, if the officer is believed to have acted improperly.

If you receive a citation, for which you are not required to appear in court, you should also receive information specifying the fines you are required to be pay, how to request court supervision (by mail or by internet), and what to do if you wish to appear in court even though it is not required.

It is our desire that when you use the roadways of Naperville you arrive at your destination safely.  Enforcement is just one of the tools we use to ensure that safe journey for our motorists.