What To Do If You're Carrying A Gun And Get Pulled Over By Law Enforcement

Many people carry, both open and concealed, in Wyoming. Here are what experts say you should do, should you be pulled over by law enforcement when carrying a gun.

Adam Painchaud, of the Sig Sauer Academy, and a police officer, offers advice on what you should do, if you are carrying a weapon in your vehicle when pulled over.

After pulling off the side of the road, place the vehicle in 'park' and put your hands at the 10 and 2 position on your steering wheel.
Wait for instruction or questions from the police.
If at night, turn the dome light on.
Before you do anything, let the officer know that you have a concealed carry permit (depending on what your state laws are or another states law) and then let him know exactly where the weapon is located, while keeping both hands on the wheel.
This is certainly a courtesy, but in some states it is required, to let the officer know you have a firearm in your vehicle. In 2011, Wyoming Legislators wanted to amend a bill (SF-47) that would require drivers to notify law enforcement that they had a fire arm in the car when pulled over, but that amendment was defeated before it went to the Governor's desk for signature.

The bottom line is to always communicate with the law enforcement officer when being pulled over. If you don't know the law in your state, when in doubt, follow the suggestions above and keep in mind, that each officer may handle situations a bit differently. Be safe out there.

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