Should driver’s ed teach you what to do when you’re pulled over?
Multiple states across the country are thinking about possibly requiring that students and driver’s license applicants be taught what to do in the event of a traffic stop or in any encounter with the police.
Illinois recently passed a law that would require instructors to teach students on the proper way to interact with law enforcement officers. Other states, including North Carolina, Virginia, Mississippi, New Jersey and Rhode Island are considering putting similar laws on the books.
A “common sense” approach
In light of several high-profile news items about tense situations between police officers and civilians, officials are seeking to provide greater transparency to police interactions and improve community relations, particularly among individuals who feel as if they are unfairly targeted by the police.
Lawmakers are working towards providing individuals with proper training to handle a high-stress situation with police officers and other law enforcement officials. In particular, lawmakers are urging instructors to push through a “common sense approach” that encourages individuals to not be confrontational.
A two way street
However, some groups are urging lawmakers to pass companion bills aimed at police officers in the state, providing them with additional training on how to handle police stops and address other issues, including implicit biases.
In North Carolina, such curriculum would be developed jointly with the sheriff’s association, the State Highway Patrol group, and an additional group representing police chiefs.
The main goal is to help teenagers and young drivers learn how to address the situation, as well as what their rights may be in any particular state.