Spotting unmarked police cars can save you from an unexpected traffic stop. Learn how to identify these vehicles effectively before it’s too late.
A police encounter may be inevitable, but you can evade unmarked vehicles by knowing what to look for. This guide details how to identify unmarked police cars through specific models, features, and behaviors to keep you informed on the road.
Look For Certain Car Models
Specific police car models are often designed to blend in with civilian cars while maintaining law enforcement functionalities. Notable examples include the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe PPV and the 2021 Dodge Charger Pursuit. Familiarizing yourself with these models can help you recognize unmarked vehicles faster.
Popular unmarked police vehicle models include:
- 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe PPV (RWD and 4WD)
- 2021 Dodge Charger Pursuit (AWD and RWD)
- 2021 Dodge Durango Pursuit
- 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utility (based on the 2020 Ford Explorer)
- 2021 Ford F-150 Police Responder
These vehicles feature enhanced performance specifications, making them reliable on the road. While not all cars from these brands are police vehicles, it’s prudent to keep your distance from them if you spot one at a stoplight.
Inspect the License Plate
Examine the license plate closely. Some unmarked police cars may bear municipal or exempt tags. Additionally, a lack of registration stickers is a common trait among law enforcement vehicles. These signs can help you determine whether you're sharing the road with a police cruiser or just another driver.
Watch for Police Features
Unmarked police cars often retain features typical of police vehicles. A noticeable indication includes a prisoner partition—a cage separating the front seats from the backrests. Although some undercover vehicles may lack this feature depending on their intended use, spotting one can be a clear signal that you're dealing with a police car.
Beyond the partition, unmarked cars may showcase other police-related characteristics:
- Dark-tinted windows
- Spotlights on the driver's side door
- Bullbars on the front grille
If you see these extras, proceed with caution. They likely belong to a police officer keeping an eye on traffic.
A Squeaky Clean Exterior
Another telltale sign of an unmarked police car is its immaculate appearance. Patrol cars are typically well-maintained due to shared use among officers. A vehicle that appears exceptionally clean and polished could be an unmarked cruiser. Keeping your distance is advisable if you're unsure; better to be safe than get pulled over by a vehicle that looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor.
Observe Driving Behaviors
How a vehicle behaves on the road can provide clues to its true identity. If you notice aggressive driving, such as tailgating, exercise caution. Aggressive maneuvers may indicate you're under the watchful eye of a police officer. Although not all cars exhibit this behavior consistently, erring on the side of caution can help you avoid unwanted attention.
Lack of Chrome
Most police cars are base models, meaning they forgo unnecessary chrome or flashy embellishments. Instead, you will find black trim on the windows and wheels. If a vehicle lacks chrome accents and has a stark appearance, it could belong to a police department. Recognizing this detail could give you an edge while navigating the roads.
Staying vigilant and knowledgeable about unmarked police cars can lead to a safer driving experience. While you may not have to become an expert in identifying every police model, knowing the signs can keep you informed on the road. Key takeaways include:
- Familiarize yourself with common police car models.
- Pay attention to license plates for municipal tags.
- Look for typical police vehicle features such as cages and spotlights.
- Notice cleanliness and external characteristics like a lack of chrome.
- Be aware of aggressive driving behaviors.
Obeying traffic laws is paramount. Employ these tips to remain in control and avoid unnecessary interactions with law enforcement. Knowledge is power, anyway, so drive safely and smartly wherever you go.