What should an officer do when approaching a traffic stop?

When an officer approaches a traffic stop, checking traffic conditions beforehand is essential for ensuring safety. Assessing the situation allows the officer to identify potential hazards, such as oncoming traffic, weather conditions, and the overall environment. This awareness helps in making informed decisions throughout the encounter.

By understanding the traffic dynamics, the officer can position themselves in a way that minimizes risk, such as keeping a safe distance from the stopped vehicle or choosing an angle that protects them from oncoming traffic. This practice is crucial since officers often work in unpredictable environments, and being mindful of external factors can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone involved in the traffic stop.

Focusing solely on the driver or relying only on dispatch information without considering the broader context of the situation could lead to overlooking important variables that might impact the safety and effectiveness of the stop. Thus, prioritizing an assessment of traffic conditions is a vital procedural step.