On an unknown risk traffic stop, how far away should your vehicle be from the suspect’s vehicle?

On an unknown risk traffic stop, how far away should your vehicle be from the suspect’s vehicle?

• A. 5 - 10 feet
• B. 25 - 30 feet
• C. 15 - 20 feet
• D. 40 - 50 feet

Answer: (C)

In an unknown risk traffic stop, you want a position that gives you both space to react and clear visibility of the vehicle’s occupants. The 15 to 20 feet behind the suspect’s car provides a safe buffer: enough distance to observe hands and movements, time to react if the vehicle moves, and room to step to the side or use cover if needed. It also helps keep you out of the suspect’s path in case they decide to flee or the vehicle lurches forward. Distances closer, like 5 to 10 feet, place you at greater risk of being struck or dragged. Much farther, such as 25–30 or 40–50 feet, reduces your ability to monitor occupants effectively and slows your response.

In an unknown risk traffic stop, you want a position that gives you both space to react and clear visibility of the vehicle’s occupants. The 15 to 20 feet behind the suspect’s car provides a safe buffer: enough distance to observe hands and movements, time to react if the vehicle moves, and room to step to the side or use cover if needed. It also helps keep you out of the suspect’s path in case they decide to flee or the vehicle lurches forward.

Distances closer, like 5 to 10 feet, place you at greater risk of being struck or dragged. Much farther, such as 25–30 or 40–50 feet, reduces your ability to monitor occupants effectively and slows your response.