The following scenario is based on a real-life situation in Germany. It could differ from a similar situation in any other country due to the specifics of national law enforcement regulations. For more details go to the section Country Specific Information of this module and choose the respective country.
The police patrol car is following a vehicle. The officers notice that the driver is not wearing a seat belt. They decide to stop the vehicle and conduct a traffic check. The officers signal the vehicle to pull over. The vehicle stops, the police car stops behind it. Both police officers get out of the car. One of them positions themselves at the passenger door and looks inside the vehicle. (This police officer does not speak with the driver, they cover the partner and monitor the situation e.g. the driver’s movements. In case the driver attempts to attack the officer, who is speaking to them, the officer at the passenger door can intervene and support the partner). The other officer positions themselves slightly off centre behind the driver’s door and addresses the driver. The latter partly opens the window.
Good morning. I am officer Meyer from the Dresden Nord police station. We are conducting a routine traffic check. Please switch off the engine.
Good morning, officer. I’m sorry, I don’t quite follow. Why did you stop me? Could you please speak slowly? I am a bit nervous.
Oh, you don’t need to be. Just remain calm. We are on a routine patrol to make our roads safer.
But why did you stop me and not the vehicle in front of me?
You committed an offence.
You were not wearing a seat belt while driving. It is a minor offence, but you still have to pay a fine. Do you understand what I am saying?
Yes, I do. You are right, I totally forgot the belt. I am in such a hurry. I need to pick up my child from day care and I am running late!
Do you admit that you committed the offence?
Yes, what else can I say? You saw what I did. Why should I deny it?
What is going to happen now?
First, I would like to see your ID card, your driving licence and the vehicle registration document.
Just a moment. Here you are.
You can pay the fine on the spot. Then you will get a receipt and the matter is settled.
Well, my backpack and my wallet are in the boot. Could I get out of the car, please?
Yes, of course. We will go with you.
(The driver fetches the wallet and hands the money over to the police officer)
Here you are.
(The police officer takes the money and goes to the police car to prepare the receipt. At the same time, they check the driver’s personal data over the radio. The check shows no reports about the driver and their vehicle. The police officer returns to the vehicle.)
Here is your receipt. It contains the information on the traffic code regulation you violated, today’s date, the amount you have paid and my signature. Do you have any other questions?
No, I don’t. Can I drive on?
Just a moment. Could I have a look at your first-aid kit, warning triangle and reflective vest?
Is that necessary? I am in a hurry!
A first-aid kit, a warning triangle and a reflective vest are compulsory in Germany. It is my duty to check them.
(The driver looks for the items in the boot and shows them to the police officer)
Is everything okay now?
Yes, everything is fine. Thank you.
Here is your ID Card, your driving licence and your registration document.
Have a safe journey. And don’t forget to fasten your belt before you go.
Yes, certainly.
(The driver gets into the car and pulls away.)
(The police officers get into their car as well and continue their patrol.)
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
