I just got back from a vacation to Pensacola/Pensacola Beach, FL.
While driving in Pensacola Beach (wife and kids in car), I stupidly made a last-second left turn from the non-turning center lane. Although I checked my mirror and looked over my shoulder, I didn't notice the Sheriff's vehicle at the intersection.
He pulled me over and asked if I knew why, so I figured it'd be best to fess up politely and get it over with - he asked for my license and went back to his vehicle, presumably to run my license/plates. He was polite and professional.
He returned and told me that he'd have to cite me for the offense, and asked for my registration and insurance, which I told him was in the glove box. He then asked me if there was a weapon in there (Florida - no duty to inform unless asked...he asked).
Me: No, officer, but I do have a Texas Concealed Handgun License, and I am carrying on my person right now.
Officer: Can I see your CHL?
Me: Sure thing - here you go.
Officer: You carrying anything else?
Me: No, officer - I looked up Florida's carry laws before I came here, and would like to make sure that I didn't fail to inform you of the concealed weapon I'm carrying.
Officer (Now more friendly than polite and professional): Nope - you're good unless I ask - by the way, how do you get a permit in Texas?
Me: I gave him the quick and dirty version.
Officer: Sounds good - are you military or law enforcement?
Me: Retired military.
Officer: Well, I'll give you a verbal warning on this, but be more careful while you're here (hands me back my licenses, registration, and insurance card).
All in all, I got out of a ticket that I really deserved. This was my first time getting pulled over since I've had my CHL. I didn't stumble over any of my answers, made eye contact with the officer, and kept my hands where he could see them.
While driving in Pensacola Beach (wife and kids in car), I stupidly made a last-second left turn from the non-turning center lane. Although I checked my mirror and looked over my shoulder, I didn't notice the Sheriff's vehicle at the intersection.
He pulled me over and asked if I knew why, so I figured it'd be best to fess up politely and get it over with - he asked for my license and went back to his vehicle, presumably to run my license/plates. He was polite and professional.
He returned and told me that he'd have to cite me for the offense, and asked for my registration and insurance, which I told him was in the glove box. He then asked me if there was a weapon in there (Florida - no duty to inform unless asked...he asked).
Me: No, officer, but I do have a Texas Concealed Handgun License, and I am carrying on my person right now.
Officer: Can I see your CHL?
Me: Sure thing - here you go.
Officer: You carrying anything else?
Me: No, officer - I looked up Florida's carry laws before I came here, and would like to make sure that I didn't fail to inform you of the concealed weapon I'm carrying.
Officer (Now more friendly than polite and professional): Nope - you're good unless I ask - by the way, how do you get a permit in Texas?
Me: I gave him the quick and dirty version.
Officer: Sounds good - are you military or law enforcement?
Me: Retired military.
Officer: Well, I'll give you a verbal warning on this, but be more careful while you're here (hands me back my licenses, registration, and insurance card).
All in all, I got out of a ticket that I really deserved. This was my first time getting pulled over since I've had my CHL. I didn't stumble over any of my answers, made eye contact with the officer, and kept my hands where he could see them.
