The real reason police tap your car in traffic stops

If you’re a driver who tends to get pulled over a lot, you’ve probably wondered why the police officer does a “taillight tap” on your car. You might think there is no reason behind it, or perhaps it is a coincidence.

If that is the case, then you are wrong, as you might be surprised to learn that he’s not wiping off the dirt, nor is he drumming the backside of your vehicle.

Instead, he’s leaving behind a very important detail on your car, just in case things go wrong.

When pulled over during a traffic stop, you might notice a police officer briefly touching the back of your car.

Orlando Trooper Steve Montiero tells News 6 that the subtle action is actually very deliberate, an important safety protocol for both the vehicle’s operator and the officer.

“When law enforcement officers conduct a traffic stop, there are plenty of procedures that need to be done, not only for the safety of the violator, but for the safety of that officer,” Montiero says. “One of those things is proving that that officer was with that car, so when officers approach a vehicle, they touch the rear of it.”

Let’s look at some of the reasons why a police officer will touch your vehicle. You might be surprised to learn why this might happen, as not everyone is aware of the inner workings of law enforcement unless they seek it out.

Ensures trunk is closed

Police officers face significant risks every day and must prepare for all possible threats, and “the first reason is to make sure that the trunk is closed,” according to Montiero.

“It may sound a little crazy, but you want to make sure that no one is about to jump out of the trunk and that it’s properly secured,” he told News 6.

The precautionary method of tapping the taillight helps officers confirm the trunk is securely latched. If they suspect a dangerous situation, they may quickly inspect the trunk to ensure no one who can pose a threat is hiding inside.

Mental state

The Law Dictionary explains that by tapping the taillight, officers create a noise that can startle the driver. This sudden sound often interrupts the driver’s actions, giving officers the opportunity to observe behavior and detect any attempts to hide contraband before approaching the window.

This surprise tactic has been effective in:

Increasing arrests of intoxicated drivers.
Apprehending individuals in possession of illegal substances.
Seizing unlicensed firearms.
Addressing other traffic-related offenses.

However, this approach isn’t without its risks. Tapping the vehicle may reveal the officer’s position, potentially putting them in harm’s way if the situation escalates.

Fingerprint tag

Touching taillights also leaves behind a fingerprint tag, serving as evidence in case the traffic stop turns violent.

“Touching the rear of the vehicle puts the officer’s fingerprints on that car, showing that he or she was there with it,” Trooper Montiero said. “In case the driver decided to flee the scene, or if something happened to that officer, it ties both the vehicle and the officer together. This is just one of the many things that take place during traffic stops to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Taillight tapping today

Modern policing integrates traditional practices with cutting-edge technology. The car touch, though seemingly old-fashioned, continues to coexist with body cameras, dash cams, and advanced crime scene tools.

But Nick Fresolone, retired New Jersey police academy instructor, tells Reader’s Digest that the taillight tap is a dying practice.

“I’ve talked to some younger officers who seem confused over whether they should be touching a car’s taillight at a traffic stop,” Fresolone says. “They’re still seeing it being done by their older colleagues, but they’re wondering why the taillight tap was not presented to them as traffic-stop protocol.”

Keep your car clean

Lastly, criminal defense attorney Joe Hoelscher reminds drivers to keep cars clean, because if it’s tagged from a previous traffic stop, you may have a negative interaction with law-enforcement.

“The next officer might be more aggressive realizing you’ve had another law-enforcement interaction recently,” Hoelscher warns. “So, my advice is to wash your car after getting a ticket or the next time you get stopped.”

By understanding these procedures, drivers can better appreciate the thought and preparation that go into ensuring safety during traffic stops. It’s a small but powerful gesture aimed at enhancing safety, ensuring accountability, and maintaining order.

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