(Letter to the Editor - Graphic Illustration/MetroCreativeConnection)

I would like to follow up on a recent letter I wrote concerning how to conduct oneself at a police traffic stop.

With many citizens having a concealed weapons permit, carrying firearms or exercising constitutional carry in West Virginia is a subject seldom addressed in how legally armed citizens should conduct themselves at police traffic stops.

As in any traffic stop, the driver should pull over as soon as possible, roll down the driver’s window, shut off the ignition and keep their hands in plain sight, as the officer approaches their window.

The driver should inform the officer immediately they are legally carrying a firearm. The same applies to any legally armed passengers in the vehicle. (This is required by law in Ohio). Then, ask the officer how they want to proceed and follow the officer’s instructions.

The driver definitely should not reach for their firearm unless the officer requests they hand over their firearm. If the officer so requests, they should do so slowly, with no sudden moves. A sudden move here could be perceived by the officer as a threat, leading to dire consequences.

If the officer allows the driver to retain their firearm, they should obey the officer’s instructions and keep their hands away from their firearm. Keeping their hands on the steering wheel should be fine.

Or, the officer may request the driver step out of their vehicle. If so, the driver should do so slowly, hands in plain sight, away from their firearm. The officer may then choose to remove the firearm themself.

I would caution against carrying a firearm in a glove box with the registration. Registration and firearms are best kept separate. If a driver should absentmindedly open their glove box for their registration while forgetting about the firearm, a tragic “misunderstanding” could result. Definitely inform the officer about the firearm before opening the glove box.

If the driver has a CWP, they should give it to the officer with their license registration and proof of insurance.

Even if the driver receives a ticket, they should soon be on their way, with their firearm.

We are blessed living in states in which citizens can legally carry firearms for self defense. It’s the duty of responsible gun carriers to do so wisely and exercise common sense.

Steve Wolverton

Parkersburg