What happens if you get pulled over in a foreign country?

If you are arrested abroad or in trouble with local authorities, the first thing you must do is contact the local United States Embassy or Consulate, or, if detained, request that they be notified of your detainment. The U.S. will not demand your release or pay for your defense if arrested abroad.

Can an American citizen be tried in another country?

The PATRIOT Act lets US courts try Americans for crimes they may have committed while overseas.

How do I find out if I can Drive in another country?

Go there and look for a “U.S. Citizen Services” tab. On that tab, look for the “Additional Resources for U.S. Citizens” link. Then scroll down and look for the “Driving in [country]” section or link. That should give you all the vital information you need to know, or at least guide you to where you can get it.

What should I do if a police officer pulls me over?

Just indicate to the police officer that you’re trying to comply. Police officers require reasonable suspicion to pull you over. Typically, police officers require a reason to pull you over, like speeding or having a broken taillight. That’s typically called reasonable suspicion, or the cop suspects you’ve broken a driving law.

Can a police officer search your car during a traffic stop?

And cops also need probable cause to search you or your car during a traffic stop. Keep in mind a few key protections and how they apply if you’re stopped by police. You can wait to pull over right away if it’s not safe. Officers require reasonable suspicion to pull you over. You can call on your Fifth Amendment right to stay quiet.

Can a police officer ask you to get out of your car?

You might be allowed to remain in your vehicle, depending on your state. An officer might ask you to step out of the vehicle, maybe checking to see if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs or concealing a weapon. But in some states, the law allows you to refuse the request and remain in the driver’s seat instead.