ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
Trooper Steve on Thursday was asked, “I am a concealed carrier. Can you go over the proper response when an officer pulls you over for a minor violation? Do I disclose?”
“We are a constitutional carry state, meaning as long as you have a valid identification issued to you by the state of Florida, you can carry a firearm on you concealed. This also includes in your vehicle. We are NOT an open carry state and your firearm should never be visible,” he said.
You’re not required to disclose that you have a concealed firearm unless you’re asked by a law enforcement officer, according to Trooper Steve.
“Carrying a firearm comes with a lot of responsibility and having an understanding mentality is a big part of that,” he said. “My recommendation when you’re pulled over by a police officer is to limit your movement in the vehicle as much as possible whether or not you have a firearm in the car. An officer does not know who they are pulling over in most cases and as a civilian we should take part in the teamwork in making sure that the encounter is calm and safe for both parties.”
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Trooper Steve recommends keeping your hands on the steering wheel, not taking off your seatbelt and waiting for the officer to approach your vehicle. Once you’re asked for your documents, let the officer know where they are before you reach for them.
The same goes if your firearm is kept in the same compartment as those documents. Inform the officer prior to reaching.
“If the officer does ask if there are any weapons in the car, then you would be required to disclose if there are. This would apply whether you had a concealed carry license or not,” he said. “The time to voluntarily disclose, if you chose to, is at the initial encounter. When doing so, make sure your hands stay visible and politely inform them.
If you have a question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.
For more Ask Trooper Steve content, click or tap here.
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