You’re A Passenger In A Vehicle, Carrying A Firearm, And Are Stopped By Police. What Should You Do?

By James England

We received a question through our Facebook page awhile back and wanted to address an important question: what should you do if you’re a passenger in a vehicle that is stopped by police and you’re carrying a concealed firearm?

We’re not attorneys nor do we purport to attempt to give legal advice so ultimately if you want legal opinion, you should consult with an attorney familiar with the laws of the state that you are stopped in.

A few questions you will want to consider in advance:

• Is your concealed carry permit/license valid in the state the vehicle is being pulled over in? (RECIPROCITY)
• Do you have a duty to inform the police officer of the presence of your handgun? (DUTY TO INFORM)
• Is the handgun loaded and accessible? (ACCESSIBILITY)
• Are you or the driver under the influence of any controlled substances or alcohol? (SOBRIETY)
• Is the firearm specifically under your control? (HOLSTERED)
• Are you in a school zone or another place where you are prohibited by Federal or State law from carrying? (PROHIBITED)

Addressing these questions specifically will help clarify how a member of law enforcement may decide to view your situation.

Where issues come up of sobriety, reciprocity, and legal possession, you’ll definitely want to consult an attorney …Read the Rest

Source:: Concealed Nation