Advice on stopping for police late at night

Driving alone at night is nerve-wracking enough. But seeing a vehicle flash blue lights in your rearview mirror on a deserted road triggers a specific kind of South African anxiety.

 

Is it a legitimate roadblock? Or is it the "Blue Light Gang"?

 

While ignoring a police instruction is a criminal offence, your safety comes first. The reality of bogus police vehicles used in hijackings is undeniable. So, how do you stay on the right side of the law without becoming a victim?

 

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and Justice Project South Africa (JPSA) developed the Blue Light Protocol. Here is exactly how to handle the situation.

The Golden Rule: Do Not Flee

 

There is a massive legal difference between evading police (running away) and proceeding to safety.

 

If you feel unsafe stopping, do not speed up. If you race away, the police may view you as a fleeing suspect, which can escalate to them opening fire. You must signal your intent clearly using the steps below.

 

Step-by-Step: The Blue Light Protocol

 

If you are being followed by a vehicle (marked or unmarked) with blue lights and you feel unsure:

 

1. Signal Your Intent

 

• Stay Calm: Panic leads to mistakes.

• Slow Down: Reduce your speed significantly.

• Hazards On: Switch on your emergency hazard lights immediately.

• The Arm Gesture: Extend your right arm out of the window with your hand outspread. Move your forearm forward and back (towards the roof) repeatedly. This signals: "I see you, follow me."

 

2. The Drive to Safety

 

• Speed Limit: Drive at NO MORE THAN 40km/h. This is crucial. It shows you are not trying to outrun them.

• Destination: Proceed directly to the closest police station or a busy public place with CCTV (like a petrol station forecourt).

• The "Home" Ban: DO NOT drive to your own home or a friend's house. You do not want to lead potential criminals to your loved ones.

 

3. Call for Backup

 

While driving (hands-free if possible), you need to verify the threat.

• Call 10111: Inform them that you are being followed and are proceeding to the nearest police station. Ask them to verify if a patrol car is in your area.

• Use Your First for Women Panic Button: This is faster than dialling. Tap the button on your First for Women App. Our operators will call you back immediately, track your location via GPS, and stay on the line with you until you reach a safe location.

 

What to Do When You Arrive

 

At a Police Station

• If no police are visible outside, hoot until someone comes out.

• Stay in your car. Keep the engine running, car in gear, and windows up until an officer from the station approaches you.

• Cooperate fully. Explain immediately that you felt intimidated and were following the safety protocol.

 

At a Service Station

• Park directly on the forecourt (near the pumps or shop entrance) in full view of the cameras.

• Cooperate with the officers from the vehicle behind you. Remain polite. Explain that you did not stop earlier because you felt unsafe.

 

A Note on Aggression

 

If the officers are genuine, they may be annoyed or aggressive because you didn't stop immediately.

• Do not shout back.

• Do not resist.

• Explain calmly: "I felt unsafe stopping in the dark and followed the protocol to come to a public space."

 

Critical Warning: If you follow all these steps and the pursuers start shooting at you, the protocol changes. You must do everything necessary to evade them and get away without endangering others.

 

Your Safety is Our Priority

 

We know that in these moments, you want a guardian angel.

 

That is why First for Women Car Insurance includes the Panic Button and Guardian Angels on Call. We don't just pay for the car if it's stolen; we provide the technology to help keep you safe while you are driving it.

 

Get a Car Insurance Quote and ensure you have the ultimate backup on your passenger seat.