The Delaware DMV has implemented Senate Bill 168, regarding “Driver Education on Traffic Stop Procedures” offering resources to help better educate and inform drivers. Introduced by Former Senator Margaret Rose Henry, Representative Debra Heffernan, and Former Representative Charles Potter Jr., the bill amends Title 14, Title 18, and Title 21 of the Delaware Code relating to driver education on traffic stop procedures. In support of Senate Bill 168, the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles has developed a series of videos that clarify and define the roles of the driver, law enforcement officer, and others during a traffic stop.

The videos are located at https://de.gov/TrafficStop along with the full text and links to download Senate Bill 168 in both English and Spanish. Use of these tools can assist in the elimination of stress and confusion and ensure the safety of all parties involved during a traffic stop.

The Delaware Department of Transportation and Division of Motor Vehicles wants to ensure the safety of all citizens in the State of Delaware. Partnering with local law enforcement for this initiative was an important step to ensure everyone is educated and aware of what to expect during a traffic stop.

“Working with our legislators and partners in law enforcement, these new tools provide a better understanding of traffic stop procedures and can lessen the anxiety that can be experienced during these situations. The ultimate goal is to help both the driver and law enforcement officer have a safe and respectful interaction,” said Secretary of Transportation Jennifer Cohan.

Jana Simpler, Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles stated, “In a never-ending effort in ensuring the safety of Delaware’s motoring public, DMV was proud to partner with state and local law enforcement to develop clear and concise tools to educate the public about the traffic stop process. Ensuring all parties are aware of their roles during a traffic stop ensures everyone makes it homes safely.”

Sgt. Richard D. Bratz, Public Information Director of the Delaware State Police commented, “The Delaware State Police is committed to public safety as well as providing resources essential to sustain healthy and secure communities. As such, we are proud to partner with the Delaware Department of Transportation, Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles and law enforcement agencies throughout Delaware to spread this vital message of best practices when interacting with law enforcement during a traffic stop. It is our mission to work with our communities to leverage innovative ideas and technology to deliver quality police services to reduce crime and improve public safety while respecting the rights of all citizens.

Please take the time to educate yourself and your family on the law, rules, and procedures of what to expect during a traffic stop. We thank the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles for including this important information for our newest drivers to our veteran drivers for a safer Delaware.”

Lt. Andrew Rubin, Administration Division Commander of the Newark Police Department states “the Department is committed to respecting the rights of all citizens that we encounter. A traffic stop can be a stressful encounter for both the citizen being stopped and the police officer affecting the stop. There are specific rules and procedures that officers must follow during a traffic stop, and various laws and case law dictate what an officer and the citizen can do during the stop.

The Newark Police were happy to partner with the Division of Motor Vehicles to help inform the public of best practices for interacting with a police officer during a traffic stop. We encourage the public to familiarize themselves with the procedures that DMV is disseminating.

Remember – when a police officer stops a vehicle, they likely do not know who is in the car at the time and whether the occupant(s) has committed a crime other than a traffic offense. This can be stressful for all parties involved. Please follow the procedures outlined in the guide from DMV to minimize the stress of a traffic stop.”

For more information on Senate Bill 168, “Driver Education on Traffic Stop Procedures,” please visit https://de.gov/TrafficStop 

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