Do You Know the Laws About Brake Lights? You Might Be Surprised

Know Your Rights: What to Do When Your Child Gets Pulled Over Late at Night

For starters as a dad I worry about all my children no matter how young or old they are I worry. So,  a couple of nights ago, my youngest daughter Angie, a 22-year-old nursing student, decided to take a break from studying and grab some food from her favorite chicken place that's always open late. As she drove down Buffalo Gap Road, a police car heading in the opposite direction, suddenly made a U-turn and pulled her over.

Angie, who lives at home with my wife and me, did everything right, she pulled over, rolled down her window, and kept her hands on the steering wheel. But instead of approaching her driver’s side window, the police officer unexpectedly opened her passenger door, startling her (mind you, she does suffer with anxiety from time to time).

The officer’s first question was, "What are you doing out so late?" Angie explained that she was hungry after a long night of studying. The officer then informed her that her license plate light and third brake light (Center High-Mounted Brake Lamp) were not working, which are legal requirements in Texas. Despite Angie’s calm explanations, the officer continued questioning her and shining his flashlight into her car, creating a very uncomfortable situation.

Get our free mobile app

This incident raises several important questions for parents like me that worry all the time. While Texas law clearly lays out the laws for functioning vehicle lights, I was concerned about the officer’s actions though. It’s crucial for parents to educate our children on how to handle and behave in such encounters, knowing their rights, and understanding what to expect.

Legal Perspective:

• Vehicle Lighting Laws: In Texas, both the third brake light and license plate light must be functional. Regular maintenance can prevent such issues and avoid unnecessary stops. Besides she had just gotten her inspection sticker the prior day.
• Police Procedure: The officer’s choice to open the passenger door is debatable and I won't. While it might have been for safety reasons, it’s important to know that you can ask the officer why certain actions are being taken.

Parental Concerns:

As parents, we need to prepare our children for late-night driving and potential encounters with law enforcement. Here’s what we can do to help our children:

• Teach Them to Stay Calm: Encourage kids to remain calm and respectful during a stop, keeping their hands visible and complying with requests.
• Empower Them to Ask Questions: They should feel comfortable asking why certain actions are being taken, especially if something feels off.

Conclusion:

After speaking with the Texas DPS in Austin, Abilene PD PIO and the Municode Library I learned the importance of educating our children about their rights and ensuring they’re prepared for any situation on the road. By staying informed and communicating openly, we can help them navigate these encounters safely and confidently. Now, who's up for some fried chicken nuggets?