What Is The Officer Doing Before He Exits The Vehicle?

Why is there sometimes a delay during a traffic stop before the officer exits the vehicle?

Before the officer pulls you over, they are using a system to identify the owner of the vehicle.

Law Enforcement Automated Data System (LEADS) is the statewide computerized network that provides computerized data and communications for criminal justice agencies within the state of Ohio. LEADS is administered by the Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent. Different states have different systems they use to get information on the vehicle.

This information includes the year the vehicle was made, the make and model, and the vehicle identification number (VIN), along with the expiration date of the license plate and any suspensions placed on the plate. The search will also return the name of the person to whom the vehicle is registered at this time.

What if I have temporary tags, can a police officer run temporary tags?

It likely only will tell the police the name of the dealer or issuer of the tag, not to whom it is issued. An officer stopping a car with temp tags will likely do a VIN check, as well as a tag check to check for stolen vehicles.

**It is very important to be careful when driving other people’s cars. Be sure to ask for the title and proof of insurance if someone that you don’t trust needs you to drive their car. If the car is stolen and you get pulled over, you could be charged for driving a stolen car. Also if there are drugs or illegal weapons in the car, you be charged for this as well.