When making a traffic stop, where should your vehicle be positioned relative to the stopped vehicle?

Positioning your vehicle 15 to 20 feet behind and aligned off the driver's side bumper is considered best practice during a traffic stop for several reasons. This distance provides a safe buffer zone, allowing for the possibility of unexpected movements from both the stopped vehicle and the officer. By aligning off the driver's side, the officer enhances their visibility of the driver and any potential passengers while reducing exposure to oncoming traffic.

This positioning also serves to keep the officer's vehicle out of the direct path of traffic, minimizing the risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Maintaining this distance promotes officer safety while allowing them to effectively assess the situation and engage with the stopped motorist.

Other options, such as positioning 50 feet directly behind the vehicle, could create excessive distance that may limit the officer's ability to interact effectively in a timely manner. Being as close as possible to the vehicle compromises safety by reducing the buffer needed to react to any sudden actions from the driver. Positioning ahead of the vehicle, while it may offer visibility, can increase danger by placing the officer in a more exposed position relative to traffic. Thus, the chosen option balances safety with the need to maintain effective engagement with the stopped vehicle.