Since the conversation here has veered into dealing with "da pooleece" I am have to add to that, what the cops HATE, but they cannot do anything about.
USE YOUR RIGHTS.
Not sure exactly what those are for those living outside the USA, but if you are here in the US, then remember you have a 5th amendment right to STFU.
If you are being arrested, ask for your Lawyer immediately, and refuse to answer any questions.
Cops ARE allowed to Lie to you. Their job is to see you behind bars.
Yeah, it helps to be polite, but be verbally assertive when demanding your rights, and this even is important if you are innocent.
Plenty of innocent folks behind bars in our police state, due to good old foot inserted in mouth.
So follow these basic rules. These are all VERBAL. Do not resist anything physically. EVER.
You need to ask:
1. Am I being detained? Or am I free to go? – helps determine if you are going to have to deal with 2.
2. In that case I decline answering all questions other than basic identification, and I want my attorney as soon as possible.
3. I do not consent to this search. – If they as "why" you answer, "I have nothing to say".
They may get a search warrant anyway, and they may even see something on the street and think it belonged to you. Don't assist them in any way by telling them "what that is" in their hand. Do NOT cut deals, that is your attorney's job. Shut UP. Ask for Lawyer.
For Basic traffic stops;
1. If you were speeding, you Don't have to admit or deny it. Your 5th amendment still stands.
2. Do not EVER say "gee officer I didn't know how fast I was going" – now they can hit you with inattentive driving, as you just admitted you didn't even know how fast you were going, with your own personal testimony.
Try this. (and try to use a polite tone of voice, don't be rude)
"Here is my license and registration" "I prefer not to comment" "am I free to go now?"