Why a Policeman Touches the Car
When a police officer approaches a car for a traffic stop, he or she may touch a few of the various parts of the vehicle. The main reason for this is to leave a forensic trail of evidence. This can prove to be valuable in the case of a crime. Additionally, it can be a surprisingly effective tactic for addressing traffic issues. However, it does come with a few downsides.
One of the biggest risks associated with a traffic stop is running into a potentially deadly situation. If a police officer isn’t careful, he or she may get hit by the car or run over by a moving vehicle. It’s also possible that the driver might not be entirely aware that the officer is actually touching the car. That’s why it’s important to remain still, keep your fingers on the wheel, and not speak to the officer.
Another logical reason for police to touch a car is to leave an interesting piece of evidence. The best way to achieve this is to leave a fingerprint. A quick and simple touch of a finger can reveal whether or not a driver is concealing a weapon or illegal substance. You might be surprised to learn that many drivers are actually hiding some form of prohibited items in their car during a traffic stop.
Touching a car in the right manner is actually a pretty old ritual. It’s used to make sure the hood is latched properly, and to provide a bit of insurance in the event that a violent person tries to climb out of the car. In the past, it was also a good idea to check the lid of the trunk. These days, it’s a bit safer for the officer to stay in the driver’s blind spot.
While this isn’t a necessity anymore, there are still many old-school officers who still perform this ritual when the time comes. For instance, some of them will put their hand on the roof above the window. They might also leave their fingers on the windshield.
A similar tactic is to tap the taillight of the vehicle. While this isn’t as startling as a full-body touch, it does have its advantages. First, it helps the officer to ensure the hood is closed without arousing the driver’s suspicion. Second, it can give the police officer some insight into the driver’s mental state.
There are many other reasons why a police officer might touch a vehicle. These include securing evidence, confirming the presence of prohibited items, or demonstrating authority. Although it might seem a little odd, the fact that the police are touching the vehicle is often the best way to reassure the driver of their safety.
The other aforementioned item that a police officer might be able to show off is his or her handprints. This is an old-fashioned method, but it still works. Some police even use body cameras to record their encounters. As with other forms of forensic technology, the results are often clear and concise.
