Colorado POST Practice Exam

During a traffic stop, where should an officer position themselves while talking to a suspect?

1. In front of the suspect's vehicle

2. Over and behind the individual's left shoulder

3. Beside the suspect's passenger side

4. Near the rear view mirror of the suspect's vehicle

The correct answer is: Over and behind the individual's left shoulder

Positioning oneself over and behind the individual's left shoulder during a traffic stop is a tactical strategy aimed at enhancing the officer's safety and maintaining control of the situation. This position allows the officer to have a clear view of both the suspect and the vehicle's interior, providing better visibility of any potential threats. By being in this position, the officer can easily observe the hands of the driver and passengers, which is crucial for ensuring that no sudden movements are made that could indicate a threat. Furthermore, this positioning helps to establish a line of sight that reduces the chances of the officer being in a direct line of fire, should any aggressive actions occur. Moreover, this tactical approach promotes effective communication with the suspect while allowing the officer to remain vigilant of their surroundings and potential traffic dangers. Maintaining this heightened awareness during a traffic stop is essential for officer safety and successful de-escalation of potentially volatile encounters.