What should a driver do first when being pulled over by law enforcement?

When being pulled over by law enforcement, the first action a driver should take is to signal and slow down. This is crucial for several reasons. Signaling indicates to the officer that you are aware of their presence and are complying with their request to pull over. Slowing down is important for safety; it allows the driver to safely move to the side of the road without sudden maneuvers that could endanger themselves, the officer, or other road users.

By taking these actions, the driver demonstrates respect for law enforcement and ensures a smoother interaction. This also helps to establish a calm atmosphere during the stop, as abrupt or erratic driving might raise concern for the officer regarding the driver's intentions or state of mind.

Other options, such as pulling over quickly without signaling or ignoring the officer altogether, can lead to unsafe situations or misunderstandings. Waiting until the officer approaches without signaling might also cause confusion or concern for the officer's safety. Therefore, signaling and slowing down is the appropriate first step when being pulled over.