Legal Question in Traffic Law in Michigan

Pulled over for witnessing traffic stop

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On my way home the other day, I noticed 3 cruisers with their lights on, on the other side/opposite direction of the freeway. Being the curious/inquisitive type, I pulled over and noticed there was a car in a ditch. Moments later, I saw driver come out who appeared to be intoxicated. Since I never saw a field sobriety test (except on the show, cops), I couldn't help but stick around and watch.

Anyway, I hung around for probably 15 minutes or so until I saw two of the cruisers start to leave. I figured if I stuck around, they might come around and question me, so I left. As I was going down the freeway, a few minutes later, I noticed a cop tailing me and shortly thereafter he pulled me over. I was then asked if I was the one who phoned in the "erratic driving of the person they stopped and that they noticed I was there a while. Anyway, I told them I didn't witness any of the events leading up to the crash. He then asked for my ID and ran my information. It occurred to be to refuse showing my ID but I figured that might have led to more unwanted scrutiny and questioning.

I was under the impression that you can only be pulled over for either a traffic violation of if you�re suspected of committing a crime. Is this not correct?


Asked on 4/22/12, 5:16 pm

2 Answer from Attorneys

Timothy Klisz Klisz Law Office, PLLC

I disagree, the police can investigate any crime and speak to any eyewitnesses. You are not in trouble, but saw a crime.

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Answered on 4/22/12, 7:00 pm


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