What is a benefit of approaching a vehicle from the passenger side?

Approaching a vehicle from the passenger side offers a strategic advantage by providing a safer distance from traffic. This method minimizes the officer's exposure to potential accidents and creates a buffer zone away from oncoming or passing vehicles. Since traffic flow typically occurs on the driver's side, approaching from the passenger side enables the officer to maintain a safer position while interacting with the occupants of the vehicle.

This approach also reduces the risk of being in the line of fire if the situation were to escalate, as more often than not, traffic and distractions are more present on the side where the driver sits. Thus, this tactic emphasizes officer safety and situational awareness in a potentially volatile environment.