• Seasoned_Greetings@lemm.ee
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    6 months ago

    On the topic of “Do I have to identify myself” or “Do I have to sign the ticket”:

    The default option is jail. A cop can put you in jail for any reason if he determines you might be breaking the law. It’s literally their job. Agreeing to be identified gives them a reason to let you go, agreeing to appear in court of your own will for an infraction gives them a reason to not hold you until a forced court date.

    I’m of the party that you should only cooperate the bare minimum with the police and I believe they have too much power as it is. But don’t refuse to identify yourself and don’t refuse to sign a ticket. Not unless you want a tour of the county jail.

    • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
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      6 months ago

      Yes, but they have the “Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start” of how to communicate with police, you see.

      • shastaxc@lemm.ee
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        6 months ago

        Yeah, annoy them with nonsense until they decide to just be spiteful to drive you out of town.

    • Wrench@lemmy.world
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      6 months ago

      You are legally required to identify yourself and show your drivers license (or equivalent) and proof of insurance. These are the rules you agree to when you pull your car out onto a public road.

      It is not optional. It’s not just a “good idea”. It’s the law.

      That only applies to the driver, of course. As a passenger, I think you’re only required to identify yourself if you are a suspect in a crime. That’s where it gets murky and where state laws/policies add nuance.