NTN Police Traffic Enforcement and Patrol Procedures Flashcards

An officer conducting a routine patrol observes a vehicle parked with its hazard lights flashing on the roadway shoulder. The officer should:

Answer: Stop to investigate and assist in case the driver needs help

Stopping to check on a disabled vehicle is a core community caretaking duty that can prevent accidents and assist motorists in distress.

During a DUI investigation, what is the purpose of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs)?

Answer: To provide observable clues of impairment that establish probable cause for a DUI arrest

NHTSA-standardized field sobriety tests give officers validated, observable indicators of impairment that support probable cause for a DUI/DWI arrest.

An officer is writing a citation for a traffic infraction. Which information is LEAST important to include on the citation?

Answer: Officer's personal home address

An officer's personal home address is never included on a citation; required fields are the violation, vehicle, location, date, time, and officer identification number.

When an officer approaches a vehicle stopped at a checkpoint, and the driver voluntarily hands over a bag of drugs, this would be considered:

Answer: A voluntary abandonment or consent that does not require Fourth Amendment justification

When a person voluntarily hands over contraband or consents to a search, no Fourth Amendment seizure or search has occurred requiring a warrant or probable cause.

An officer must write a use-of-force report after an incident. The report should be completed:

Answer: As soon as practicable after the incident while details are fresh

Use-of-force reports must be completed promptly after the incident so that accurate, detailed information is documented while the officer's memory is clearest.

During a vehicle pursuit, a supervisor orders the officer to terminate the chase. The officer should:

Answer: Immediately comply and discontinue the pursuit

Officers must immediately comply with a supervisor's order to terminate a pursuit; failure to do so violates policy and creates serious liability.