Police officers touch the back of cars during traffic stops for several important reasons related to safety, evidence, and assessing the situation:
- To leave fingerprints as evidence: By touching the rear of the vehicle, officers leave their fingerprints on the car. This can serve as proof that the officer made contact with the vehicle in case the driver flees or if something goes wrong during the stop, aiding later investigations.
- To check the trunk is closed and secure: Officers physically ensure that the trunk or hatchback is properly closed and no one is hiding inside who might suddenly jump out and pose a risk to the officer’s safety.
- Psychological assessment and safety: The touch can startle or prompt a reaction from the driver, allowing officers to observe the driver's behavior for signs of nervousness, intoxication, or attempts to hide illegal items. This short interaction helps officers gauge potential danger and prepare for the encounter.
- Tactical precaution: Approaching a vehicle from the rear and touching it makes the officer's presence known, which can deter sudden dangerous actions by the driver or passengers. It also ensures the officer's position is clear, and the fingerprints left behind serve as a safeguard if an incident occurs.
This practice has historical roots for officer safety and evidence preservation and continues today despite advances in camera technology as a cautious standard procedure during traffic stops.
