Conducting a Safe Traffic Stop

Questions and Answers

When planning a traffic stop, what should you consider to minimize the risk of danger for both yourself and the driver?

The driver's behavior and your agency's policies

Traffic flow, road conditions, and weather (correct)

The driver's vehicle type and your patrol zone

The time of day and the driver's license status

What is the primary concern when choosing a location for a traffic stop?

Ensuring the driver's cooperation

Avoiding passing vehicles (correct)

Minimizing traffic congestion

Maintaining a safe distance from the driver

Why is it important to check the width of the road and the shoulder?

To ensure the driver has enough space to maneuver

To identify potential escape routes

To determine the speed limit

To reduce the potential for crashes (correct)

What should you try to avoid when stopping a vehicle in a populated area?

Creating a volatile and dangerous scene Signup and view all the answers

What factors can affect traffic flow?

Weather conditions, school zones, and neighborhood activities Signup and view all the answers

When is it acceptable to stop a vehicle in a location that is not safe?

In an emergency situation Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize when evaluating the situation and deciding whether to request backup?

Your agency's policies and procedures Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to become familiar with normal traffic flow in your patrol zone?

To anticipate and prepare for potential dangers Signup and view all the answers

When stopping a driver on the right side of the road, where should you position your patrol vehicle?

At an offset-angle position, aligning the center of your vehicle's hood with the tail light of the driver's vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of angling the patrol vehicle when stopping a driver on the right side of the road?

To provide cover in case the driver shoots a weapon Signup and view all the answers

When stopping a driver on the left side of the road, where should you position your patrol vehicle?

At a safe distance behind the driver's vehicle, in an offset-angle position Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using the PA system during a traffic stop?

To direct the driver to move their vehicle further to the right Signup and view all the answers

Where should the backup officer position their patrol vehicle during a traffic stop?

At a safe distance behind the primary officer's vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended distance to park the patrol vehicle behind the driver's vehicle?

1½-2 car lengths Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to turn the wheels of the patrol vehicle away from traffic during a traffic stop?

To prevent the vehicle from rolling into traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do with their patrol vehicle engines during a traffic stop?

Keep them running in case of a sudden need to react Signup and view all the answers

What is the main consideration for parking the patrol vehicle during a traffic stop?

Safety of the officer and the driver Signup and view all the answers

Where should the primary patrol vehicle typically be positioned in relation to the suspect's vehicle?

On the driver's side of the suspect's vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the takedown area in a traffic stop?

To serve as a tactical area for the officer to handcuff and search the driver or passengers Signup and view all the answers

Where is the safe zone typically located in a traffic stop?

Behind the patrol vehicle formation Signup and view all the answers

How far apart should backup patrol vehicles be positioned?

Two door widths apart Signup and view all the answers

What should be focused on the suspect's vehicle from the backup vehicles?

Takedown lights, high beams, and spotlights Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the forward-facing emergency lights of a patrol vehicle positioned at the rear of the primary patrol vehicle?

Turn them off to avoid distracting the officer Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a high-risk traffic stop?

Many backup units are involved Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for instructing the occupants to put their hands outside the windows?

To get a clear view of their hands due to heavily tinted windows Signup and view all the answers

What should the driver do with the door after exiting the vehicle?

Keep the door open Signup and view all the answers

Why does the primary officer instruct the driver to lift the back of their shirt by the collar?

To check for any hidden weapons or bulges Signup and view all the answers

What action should the driver take if they have four doors on their vehicle?

Stop at the back door and open it Signup and view all the answers

Why does the primary officer instruct the driver to turn off their engine?

To prevent any potential threat from the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of instructing the driver to step away from the vehicle?

To give the officer more space to approach Signup and view all the answers

What should the driver do with their keys or key fob?

Remove and place them outside on the roof of the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should the driver do once they have turned in a complete circle with their shirt lifted?

Stop, turn, and face away from the officer Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the plus one rule during a traffic stop?

To assume that if you find one suspect, there may be another Signup and view all the answers

How should you approach the suspect's vehicle when searching for hidden passengers?

Cautiously, with weapons pointed at the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

Who should give commands to discovered passengers during a traffic stop?

The officer with the best vantage point Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a discovered passenger refuses to come out of the vehicle?

Retreat back to the patrol vehicle Signup and view all the answers

How should you unlock the trunk during a vehicle search?

With one officer unlocking the trunk and another holding it down Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when searching the vehicle for hidden passengers?

Assuming a safe position to prevent crossfire Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after the scene is secure and all is safe during a traffic stop?

Notify dispatch to discontinue emergency radio traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should you follow when searching the vehicle for hidden passengers?

Agency policies for searching the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is an indication of a potential threat when observing the driver's behavior?

Making excessive motion, beyond natural curiosity Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you encounter a driver with lethal opioid drugs in the vehicle?

Administer an emergency opioid antagonist according to agency policies Signup and view all the answers

What should you verify when interacting with a driver?

The information on the driver's license is current Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a driver does not have identification?

Ask for their social security number Signup and view all the answers

How should you handle a driver with an X on their license, or an individual whose appearance doesn't match the sex on their license?

Follow agency policies and procedures on how to enter the data into the system Signup and view all the answers

What should you confirm when verifying driver and vehicle information?

The information on the vehicle registration matches the VIN, make, model, and year of the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should you be aware of when interacting with a driver or passengers?

They may have lethal opioid drugs in the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize when interacting with a driver while maintaining officer safety?

Observing the driver's behavior for signs of a threat Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of every traffic stop?

To promote driver education and safer roadways Signup and view all the answers

How can you minimize negative and potentially unsafe results during a traffic stop?

By conducting yourself professionally and following your training Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when interacting with a driver who does not speak English during a traffic stop?

Call for an interpreter to assist with communication Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of establishing a command presence during a traffic stop?

To convey professionalism and respect Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to remain polite and focused during a traffic stop?

To convey to the driver that you are listening to them Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when the driver reacts with embarrassment, anger, fear, or excuses during a traffic stop?

Remain calm and professional, and continue to follow procedure Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of explaining the violation in terms of what you saw the vehicle do during a traffic stop?

To describe the violation in a neutral and objective manner Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to exercise procedural justice during a traffic stop?

To minimize the risk of conflict and promote a safer outcome Signup and view all the answers

When parking their patrol vehicle, what should the backup officer avoid to prevent blinding or silhouetting the primary officer?

Using the front emergency lighting Signup and view all the answers

What should the backup officer do when approaching the driver's vehicle?

Approach the driver's vehicle along the passenger's side of the primary officer's vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer look for when visually assessing the vehicle from the safety of their vehicle?

Signs of criminal activity and whether the occupants are trying to exit the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do when exiting their patrol vehicle?

Exit the vehicle quickly and check for oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to quietly secure the patrol vehicle door?

To prevent the door from blowing open and striking a passing vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do with their portable radio volume?

Adjust the volume to low Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer continuously observe when exiting their patrol vehicle?

The driver's vehicle and all its occupants Signup and view all the answers

What could be an indication of stolen merchandise, drugs, tools, a person, or a corpse in the vehicle?

If the vehicle's rear end appears to be significantly lower than the front Signup and view all the answers

When making an arrest during a traffic stop, what should you do before taking action?

Call for backup Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when deciding what to do with the vehicle and passengers after an arrest?

The safety of the passengers Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with the vehicle if it is stolen after an arrest?

Follow agency policies and procedures Signup and view all the answers

Why should you maintain a professional standard of conduct during an arrest?

To avoid resistance or violence Signup and view all the answers

When should you search the vehicle after an arrest?

Depending on the circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with the driver's possessions after impounding the vehicle?

Remove and secure them Signup and view all the answers

Why should you treat passengers with dignity and respect after an arrest?

Because they may be emotional Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with the vehicle after an arrest if the owner gives consent?

Arrange for a third party to remove it Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a passenger tells you they have a weapon on their person or in the vehicle?

Ask them to display the concealed weapon or firearm license with valid identification Signup and view all the answers

What type of identification should you request from passengers during a traffic stop?

A driver's license, state-issued identification card, school picture identification, or military ID Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after obtaining the driver's and passengers' documentation during a traffic stop?

Complete the criminal justice database checks or request dispatch to complete them Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when responding to a situation where you suspect a firearm is in the vehicle?

Ask for the location of the firearm in the vehicle and request to see the concealed weapon or firearm license Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of running criminal justice database checks during a traffic stop?

To verify the driver's identity and vehicle ownership Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you suspect a passenger is involved in a violation or crime during a traffic stop?

Request the passenger's documentation that provides accurate personal information Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize when evaluating the situation and deciding how to respond to a traffic stop involving a concealed weapon?

The safety of the driver and passengers Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you determine that a firearm is concealed and readily accessible for immediate use during a traffic stop?

Ask the driver to display the concealed weapon or firearm license with valid identification Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Conducting a Safe Traffic Stop

Plan the stop in a well-lit area with low traffic volume, considering traffic flow, weather conditions, and road conditions.
Be prepared to react quickly to developments and request backup based on agency policies and procedures.

Choosing a Safe Location

Select a location where the driver can maneuver out of traffic flow, avoiding the danger of passing vehicles.
Ensure both the officer and driver are far enough off the road, allowing other vehicles to pass safely.
Check the width of the road and shoulder to ensure a safe distance.
Attempt to pull off onto a level spot or slight downgrade, avoiding upgrades that may cause a large vehicle to roll into the patrol vehicle.

Parking the Patrol Vehicle

Park the patrol vehicle a safe distance behind the driver's vehicle, about 1½–2-car lengths behind.
Position the patrol vehicle in the offset-angle position, aligning the center of the hood with the tail light of the driver's vehicle and pointing the nose outward into traffic flow.
Turn the wheels away from traffic, potentially providing cover if the driver shoots a weapon.
Use the PA system to direct the driver to move their vehicle further to the right if needed.

Positioning the Backup Patrol Vehicle

Park the backup vehicle at a safe distance behind the primary patrol vehicle.
Keep the patrol vehicle engines running in case of changes in the situation.
Turn off the siren once the driver has stopped.
Position the backup vehicle to the right of the primary patrol vehicle, facing the suspect's vehicle.
Ensure all backup vehicles are at least two door widths apart, focusing takedown lights, high beams, and spotlight on the suspect's vehicle.

Verbal Commands

Use clear and concise verbal commands to control the occupants of the vehicle, such as:
- "Roll down all the windows."
- "Raise your hands again where I can see them."
- "Turn off your engine."
- "Remove and place your keys or key fob outside on the roof of your vehicle."
- "Open your door from the outside with that same hand."
- "Put your hand back above your head."

Removing Passengers from the Vehicle

Instruct the driver to exit the vehicle on the driver's side, keeping the door open.
Issue commands to ensure the driver's hands are visible and above their head.
Instruct the driver to step away from the vehicle, extend their arms, and lift the back of their shirt by the collar.
Have the driver turn in a complete circle, looking for any weapons or obvious bulges.
Instruct the driver to face away from the officer, place their hands back in the air, and step backward towards the officer's voice.

Clearing and Searching the Vehicle

Cautionly approach the suspect's vehicle with weapons pointed at it.
Use a systematic visual search to clear the vehicle's interior for hidden passengers.
Retrieve the keys or remote to open the trunk, moving cautiously to the trunk area.
Lock the trunk and hold it down to prevent sudden opening.

Concluding the Stop

Once the scene is secure, notify dispatch to discontinue emergency radio traffic.
Follow proper arrest procedures if arresting the driver or passengers.
Ensure the vehicle is treated as a potential crime scene, following agency policies for searching the vehicle.

Unit 1: Unknown Risk Traffic Stops

Lesson 1: Communication With Drivers

The goal of every traffic stop is to promote driver education and safer roadways.
Decreasing tension and increasing cooperation during traffic stops can be achieved by:
Exercising procedural justice and remaining professional at all times
Greeting the driver and passengers politely, introducing yourself and your agency, and explaining why you stopped them
Allowing the driver to speak and venting their concerns
Keeping a pleasant expression, a calm tone of voice, and a non-confrontational interview stance
Establishing a command presence by using words that convey professionalism and respect

Positioning of Backup Patrol Vehicle

The backup officer should:
Offset their vehicle to the left or right of the primary officer's vehicle
Not use the front emergency lighting to avoid blinding or silhouetting the primary officer
Use only rear emergency lights
Approach the driver's vehicle along the passenger's side of the primary officer's vehicle

Conducting a Visual Assessment

Visually assess the vehicle for signs of danger before exiting your patrol vehicle
Look for signs of criminal activity, such as:
The vehicle's rear end appearing significantly lower than the front
Occupants trying to exit the vehicle
Follow agency policies and procedures if the occupants try to exit the vehicle

Exiting the Patrol Vehicle

Check for oncoming traffic in the rearview and side-view mirrors before exiting the vehicle
Exit the vehicle quickly and quietly
Secure your vehicle door to prevent it from blowing open and striking a passing vehicle
Adjust your portable radio volume to low
Continuously observe the driver's vehicle and all its occupants

Interacting with the Driver

Use observation skills, safe positioning, and safe distancing when interviewing the driver or passengers
Be aware of potential threats, such as:
Moving excessively and nervously
Watching you intently, beyond normal curiosity
Moving toward the floorboard or backseat
Making excessive motion, beyond natural curiosity
Sitting in a rigid, wooden posture
Follow agency policies and procedures regarding administering an emergency opioid antagonist if you encounter lethal opioid drugs

Driver and Vehicle Information

Verify that the information on the driver's license is current
Compare information on the vehicle registration to the VIN, make, model, and year of the vehicle
If the driver does not have identification, ask for their Social Security number
Confirm that the insurance information is current and applicable to the driver's vehicle
If the driver has a sex or gender option other than male or female, follow agency policies and procedures on how to enter the data into the system

Legal Carry of a Concealed Weapon

The driver or passenger may inform you of a concealed weapon or firearm license
If you have reasonable suspicion, ask for the location of the firearm in the vehicle
If you determine that a firearm is concealed and readily accessible, ask the driver to display the license and proper identification
Follow agency policies and procedures regarding traffic stops that involve a concealed weapon or firearm license

Passenger Information

The driver is the only occupant required to provide documentation
Request documents from passengers suspected of a violation or crime, such as:
Driver's license or state-issued identification card
School picture identification
Military ID
Permanent resident card (green card)
Complete criminal justice database checks or request dispatch to complete them

Arrests During Traffic Stops

You may develop probable cause to justify an arrest of a driver or passenger for an offense that came to your attention during the investigation
Before making an arrest, call for backup and work together with the backup officer to conduct the arrest
Maintain a professional standard of conduct at all times

Disposition of the Vehicle and Passengers

If you arrest a driver, decide what to do with the vehicle and any passengers
Treat the passengers with dignity and respect
Depending on the offense, you may search the vehicle, impound it, or retain it for evidence
Follow agency policies and procedures to inventory the contents of the vehicle and remove and secure any driver or passenger possessions

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Description

Learn how to conduct a safe traffic stop by selecting a low-traffic area, reacting to developments, and evaluating the situation. Consider traffic flow and agency policies.