Had a few drinks or smoked some weed?
Here are 10 common reasons for being stopped and getting a quick trip to jail.

1. Speeding- The number one reason for getting pulled over. Once the officer is at your car window, the smell of alcohol or marijuana can quickly lead to an arrest. Speed limits change quickly in the city and can lead to a quick trip to jail.

2. Weaving-This is very subjective and can include weaving within your lane. Yes, within the lane. Be alert when you are driving—especially at night.

3. Out of date car tags- This one is so simple and avoidable, but one of the most common. Each month has a different color and it very easy for the officer to tell when the tags are out of date. Keep your registration current.

4. Failure to signal a turn or lane change- You see it all day every day, but especially at night you’re asking for a traffic stop. This includes lanes on the freeway and even moving into the turn lanes. It is a sure invitation to be stopped.

5. Wrong way on a one-way- Downtown areas are full of crazy one-way streets. Don’t be distracted by your booming stereo, girlfriend or need to get home quickly.

6. Driving without headlights at night- When you’re leaving a bar, restaurant or QT the streets are often well-lit and it may not occur to you to turn on your lights. Be sure to check your lights—especially if other drivers are flashing theirs. Also, if you have auto lights--be sure to check them as car wash employees and valets often may adjust or turn them off.

7. Lights Out- Includes the obvious non working headlight, as well as overlooked things like tailights or brake lights. Don’t forget, there’s a light for your license plate. If any of them are out—you may see red and blues.

8. Foolish driving- Stopping far short of a stop sign, stopping long at stop sign, rolling stops, squealing tires as you start; all draw attention to you and quickly lead to being stopped by the police.

9. Red light-yellow light—This an obvious no-no but is a very common reason for being stopped. You WILL NOT win the argument that the light was only yellow when you floored it through the intersection!!!

10. Car stereo too loud- Doesn’t matter if you’re driving or parked----you want to keep your windows up and the volume down or you‘re asking for police attention.

BONUS TIP

11. Leaving a bar- OK, this is not a violation of the law but realize officers often sit near bars and watch how patrons act going to their cars. They can legally follow you as far as they like just waiting to pounce on any violation they may see in addition to those listed above.