Urban Legends of the Road: How to Spot an Unmarked Police Car and Unlisted Emergency Numbers

James Parrish
August 4, 2010

James Parrish
http://www.theparrishlawfirm.com

It's a story that's been going around for years: a girl drives her car down a dark, empty highway. She sees flashing lights—she's being pulled over. But wait! Girl senses something is "off," calls secret, unlisted police number, and is informed the car attempting to pull her over does not belong to the police. Girl drives away to safety and police later find the man driving the fake car to be a wanted serial killer. OBVIOUSLY NOT REAL. But if all rumors are based in fact, is there an unlisted dispatch number to call? And how can you tell if it's an unmarked police car flagging you down?

While some states do have emergency "notification numbers" for motorists to call, they vary across the country. For example, Virginia motorists are encouraged to call 911 or dial #77 to reach the Highway Patrol. Caveat: The state of Virginia borders many police districts. If you're in a moving vehicle near state lines, who knows where the cell tower will connect you (though I should note, Maryland uses #77 as well)? This is the reason it's been drilled into our heads from an early age: 9-1-1 emergency. You should always dial 911 first in case of an emergency.

On that note however, some cell phone providers or auto insurance providers do have roadside assistance numbers for non-emergency situations. Contact your service provider and store the numbers in your cell phone.

Now, on to the unmarked car. Sure, there have been reports of criminals masquerading as law enforcement officials. However it's extremely rare and unlikely. If you are ever truly in doubt as to the legitimacy of the flashing lights behind you, you can call the 911 dispatcher to confirm as you are being pulled over, request to see the officer's badge and photo ID, or request to be allowed to follow the officer back to the police station. While your safety is certainly a priority, remember to be extremely polite when you communicate these requests to the officer. Depending on the situation, they may not be willing or able to oblige.

Unmarked cars will vary by state and police district. But usually, they will have additional mirrors, as well as extra lights installed. Try looking for antennae and dash-mounted radar equipment, as well.

If there's one thing you do note, it's that only police vehicles can use flashing blue lights in the US. So if you see those, it's time to start slowing down and pulling over.

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James Parrish is a traffic lawyer and DWI/DUI attorney in Manassas, Warrenton, and Woodbridge, Virginia. Mr. Parrish formerly represented law enforcement agencies and instructs law enforcement officers. His firm offers free consumer's guides on various aspects of the law including DWI/DUI, reckless driving, dog bites/attacks and automobile accidents. http://dwi.theparrishlawfirm.com/
http://traffic.theparrishlawfirm.com/