Have you ever been pulled over by a police officer and noticed them touch the back of your vehicle before approaching your window? Many people have wondered what this action means and why police officers do it. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this common practice.
The Purpose of the Touch
The touch on the back of the vehicle is often referred to as a "pre-stop safety check." Police officers are trained to touch the back of the vehicle to leave their fingerprint on the car, indicating that they were the last person to touch it. This is done for safety reasons in case something happens to the officer during the traffic stop. If the officer is harmed, the fingerprint on the car can be used as evidence to link the suspect to the crime.
Other Reasons for the Touch
In addition to the safety reasons, there are several other reasons why police officers touch the back of a vehicle. One reason is to check for anything unusual on the car, such as a hidden compartment or a bumper that is loose. This can alert the officer to potential safety concerns or illegal activity.
Another reason for the touch is to check the temperature of the vehicle. If a car has been running for a long time, the hood and trunk can become hot to the touch. By touching the back of the car, the officer can determine if the vehicle is safe to approach.
The Importance of the Touch
While the touch on the back of the vehicle may seem like a small and insignificant action, it is an important part of a police officer's safety protocol. It is a quick and easy way for officers to protect themselves and gather important information about the vehicle they are about to approach.
It is also important for drivers to be aware of this practice and not be alarmed when they see a police officer touch their vehicle. It is a routine part of a traffic stop and does not necessarily indicate that the driver has done anything wrong.
Conclusion
In summary, police officers touch the back of vehicles for safety reasons, to check for anything unusual, and to determine the temperature of the vehicle. This practice is an important part of the officer's safety protocol and should not be cause for alarm. By being aware of this practice, drivers can help to ensure a safe and smooth traffic stop.