As part of Bayside’s policy, officers sometimes must perform what is called a “silent run”. During this time, officers will have their emergency lights on without the audible cue of a siren. This is particularly useful when responding to calls in which the officer’s presence being known could conflict with victim safety or evidence preservation. Bayside’s most common uses for “silent runs” include bank hold-up alarms and home invasion alarms. While engaging in a “silent run”, officers are allowed to travel faster than posted speed limits but are still expected to drive with due regard for public safety and follow all other traffic prompts. 

Yes, the police officers understand that drivers are skeptical of vehicles that do not have regular police markings and emergency lighting on the roof. Police officers expect drivers to travel to a well-lit and even populated location before stopping, such as a fast food restaurant or gas station. Police officers also understand if drivers are reluctant to roll their window down fully or leave their vehicle until it has been established that the driver is indeed being stopped by a legitimate police officer.

Wisconsin State Law permits U-turns at controlled intersections unless signs are installed to indicate the maneuver is prohibited. U-turns will have to be made from the left-most turn lane in the same fashion as a conventional left turn. Vehicles on the intersecting street attempting to turn right on red must yield to the U-turning vehicle. Backing up is not allowed in a U-turn, so drivers will have to be familiar with their vehicle’s turning radius. U-turns will also be prohibited on curves and hill crests where visibility is less than 500 feet.

If you are driving a motor vehicle you must show your license to do so, as driving is a privilege instead of a right. If you receive a citation, you must provide the required information for the ticket. When being issued a citation, you are being released on your promise to appear in court or provide the appropriate bond before the appearance date. You must sign the citation promising to do so, it is not an admission of guilt.

To earn a probationary driver’s license as a teen, you must hold an instruction permit for at least 6 months. Within this time, you must fulfill the following requirements to qualify.

• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You must have an adult sponsor.
• You must pass an approved drivers education course.
• You must be free of any traffic violations for 6 months.
• You must accumulate 30 hours of behind-the-wheel driving experience, with 10 of those hours being at night.
• You must be enrolled in school or have graduated from high school.

Upon fulfilling all these requirements, you can then apply for a probationary license.