Use the passenger side

[wannabeGAcop]

Almost got hit on my first week of FTO. I think I am going to change my approach to passenger side. Does anyone here go to the passenger side everytime?
Thanks, stay safe.

[DOAcop38]

Almost got hit on my first week of FTO. I think I am going to change my approach to passenger side. Does anyone here go to the passenger side everytime?
Thanks, stay safe.

sounds like you are not off setting you patrol vehicle-at least(min.) off set by 2 ft and at least a car length behind.if you are making traffic stops in a heavy veh. traffic area and cannot direct your contact off street/highway onto a side street or pkg lot or side of the road,the contact from the passengers side will be very helpful-it also allows you to SEE more into the vehicle(if the windows) aren't tinted.and "yes" I also cross between the vehicles,ala, my patrol units front end and the motorists vehs' rear. some officers and FTOS say "No" to this ,but it only takes a few seconds,and to me its better than walking all the way behind your patrol car to come around and make contact( you can lose night vision from your overhead lights and you also lose a few seconds of observation on the suspects-a definite "no-no")-if in doubt,hands out the window and "don't move" is what they hear from me..

[stealth600]

Normally I do go the passenger side, but not always. It depends on conditions; traffic flow, parking lot stops, driver/passenger actions. But 9.5 of 10 times, when on the interstate, I am going to the passenger side.

It is more of what will make you feel comfortable in regards to your safety. I was recently intorduced to a new technique. I feel it is a good idea in regards to watching the violating vehicle, but not so sure about other safety issues.

[Desert DPS]

Pretty much what stealth said. I was trained to make passenger side approaches and almost always do. If it's a parking lot or somewhere where there is very little traffic and lots of room, I'll approach on the driver's side.

[Gene L]

Georgia has a "move over" law requiring a motorist to slow down or in a four lane, to move to the right hand lane when they see the blue lights of a traffic stop.

Saw a bunch of films of cars hitting stopped vehicles. If you're anywhere near the vehicle struck, you're probably going to be in trouble. I guess passenger side is better, but most of my guys use the driver's side, because that's the way we're taught.

Edit: Make that the "Left hand lane" or the lane away from the stop.

[aikido kid]

Georgia has a "move over" law requiring a motorist to slow down or in a four lane, to move to the right hand lane when they see the blue lights of a traffic stop.


In New York we have a GO FASTER, and GET CLOSER law. Everyone moves over to the lane closest to the cop and goes faster.

I work mostly in urban areas, so I go on the passenger side because they usually don't expect it. I'll also approach on the drivers side the first time, and maybe on passenger side the second time. SO i can get a better look around the car.

[deputy x 2]

I agree with DOAcop, you have to off set your patrol vehicle and turn the wheels toward the road.

I disagree with walking between the cars. Unless you don't mind losing your legs. :eek: :eek: :eek: You never know if the motorist will slam it into reverse or an approaching drunk will take you out.

At night it is a no no because you are giving up your position. With the take down lights on...they have no idea which side you are approaching on.

Staggered approach is the key. Don't make it a habit to always approach on the same side.

[SRT936]

Staggered approach is the key. Don't make it a habit to always approach on the same side.

Yep, keep them guessing. I use the passenger side approach any time there's enough ground left on the side of the road to allow for it. Many of our roads have steep ditches on the side, so its not always an option.

For me, the passenger side is more about visibility than it is about getting away from traffic. As mentioned, if someone blows into the vehicle, it doesn't really matter where your standing, you're getting hit. However, I can see much better into a vehicle walking up on the passenger side.

[PhilipCal]

Normally I do go the passenger side, but not always. It depends on conditions; traffic flow, parking lot stops, driver/passenger actions. But 9.5 of 10 times, when on the interstate, I am going to the passenger side.

It is more of what will make you feel comfortable in regards to your safety. I was recently intorduced to a new technique. I feel it is a good idea in regards to watching the violating vehicle, but not so sure about other safety issues.

I was originally trained (like a lot of cops) to do the driver's side approach. About a year prior to retiring, I routinely used the passenger side approach

[Sabre]

I go to the passenger side almost every time.

[Tikidaddy]

I always offset the vehicle if on the road but, most of the time I won't hit my lights until I'm near a buisness, etc 90% of the time the person will pull into the parking lot or more open area just like I wanted them too. Most of our roads have very narrow shoulders. At night I always approach the passenger side.

[BSO6531]

I tend to switch up depending on where i stop somewhere, and the amount of people in the vehicle....great for a suprise walkup. Especially if you are uneasy about the occupancy! Can't tell you how many times I have scared people when I knock on the passenger window

[sgttom]

echoed.............

Normally I do go the passenger side, but not always. It depends on conditions; traffic flow, parking lot stops, driver/passenger actions. But 9.5 of 10 times, when on the interstate, I am going to the passenger side.

It is more of what will make you feel comfortable in regards to your safety. I was recently intorduced to a new technique. I feel it is a good idea in regards to watching the violating vehicle, but not so sure about other safety issues.

[whatnext]

I have started doing the passenger side approach upon initial approach. Most people will be suprised by this. Once I have their lisence and have run them, or whatever my reason for going back to the car, I go to the driver side at that point because they are now thinking I am going to the passenger side. It has worked well for me so far. I catch them by suprise everytime. :D

[bikecop136]

I go for the passenger side approach. Especially on the Interstate. Texas has that move over law too. The problem i have is that most people dont know, or follow that law. I can at least see more and get ready if a drunk or onlooker is going to hit my squad or me doing the passenger approach. Alot of the perps also think that your are going to come up to them drivers side. Have surprised them many times by doing the opposite approach.

[CruiserClass]

I do it about half the time. It depends on traffic, number of occupants, etc.

I don't walk between the vehicles, though, although I started out doing it that way. You may get caught between them, but just as importantly if you do it at night you backlight yourself with your spotlight and takedowns on your approach if you go between.

[toolegit2quit]

I like to switch it up as well depending on what I am looking for that night. If I am working agressive patrol, I will usually go to the driver-side so I can get right in the driver's face to see if the eyes are bloodshot or glassy, also if I can smell any illicit odors emanating from their person (alcohol or otherwise).

If I am a zone car on the interstate, i'm almost always going passenger side. All it takes is one truck going 85 about 2 feet from you, blowing your statie hat off to make you realize how precious life is.

[sgttom]

make sure your offsets are within limits for the conditions. this will help protect you on a driver side approach


for me, I usually go up on the passenger side when possible (depending on conditions). I usually mix it up the passenger(s) anyway...

the violator and their passenger usually expects that the officer walk up on the drivers side. there have been many times I walk up on the passenger side and the occupants are all looking over their left shoulder (drivers side) wondering where I am... (that's a good thing to me).

[Phlip]

I always do little things to throw people off. Like normally I very softly close the door when I exit my car. But occasionally, I'll slam the door normally... twice.

[Gatorfan_fromMN]

Passenger side...without a doubt. Safer, better element of surprise and easier to see more...I work mostly 2 lane roads and city streets and still use this; I am a big believer in it. About the only time I'll ever do a driver approach is when they are the only occupant and stop in a parking lot. I also do the same on accidents and motorist aids...Everyone goes on the right sides of the vehicles, myself included...

[SMPPD87]

In New York we have a GO FASTER, and GET CLOSER law. Everyone moves over to the lane closest to the cop and goes faster.

I work mostly in urban areas, so I go on the passenger side because they usually don't expect it. I'll also approach on the drivers side the first time, and maybe on passenger side the second time. SO i can get a better look around the car.

same here, i like to change things up. keeps them guessing and keeps me on my toes too.

[LA7Mary3]

If you work on a highway, ALWAYS use the passenger side. I can't tell you how many times I've stood in the dark on the passenger side watching a driver stare at their driver's sideview mirror waiting for me to approach. From a safety standpoint (getting struck by traffic), I can't believe this debate goes on pertaining to highway traffic stops. On a city street, a driver's side is OK, as long as you watch traffic.

[TPD94]

Working mids, I personally like the right side tactical, catches them off guard, keeps them guessing. Traffic permitting, I finish the stop on the driver side...so they can sign the ticket...ha, ha!!

[WhoRunIt1475]

passanger approach gets used every time on nights... days are about 50/50 it depends were im at in the city..

a tip for nightime traffic stop are to use all your take down lights and spot lights, turn on the high beams and when you step out of your patrol vehicle dont shut the door all the way leave it cracked and walk BEHIND your vehicle and take a wide angle to the passanger window.

I have more tips but im not going to make them public in a public forum

good luck all

[Muldoon54]

We get the drivers out without approaching the vehicle. If they don't want to get out, for whatever reason, I will walk backwards behind my unit (the lights blind them) then walk to the passenger side. Most of the time I catch them looking over their shoulder to the left for me.

[Soon2Be]

Always passenger side on the highway.

[86-43]

Alot of my stops are on one of two 2 lane highways (55mph). I'd say 50% of the time, people don't pull onto the shoulder far enough. I get my car as close to the road as possible without being on it, then use the passenger side. If the smart people pull over enough, I angle the car out as far as I can to give me a buffer zone and use the drivers side.

[Xaque]

Passenger side is great...

While the op is peering over their left shoulder, you can get a great view of the back seat, center console, right front seat, op's right hand, glove box, etc etc etc.

I work 90% nights, so its easy to "hide" in the dark... and when making that approach its always from back around the rear of my car. (Never between my take-downs and them)

-Zack

[Jaded745]

Although I tend to mix it up too depending on circs, I mainly prefer walking up on the passenger side. Since I work primarily nights, it works great by catching them off guard. However,, there have been times when the passenger has caught on right before I appproach when they notice my shadow partially caused by the passenger spotlight. I always walk behind my car and never between for the same reasons stated (don't want to silhouette myself).

[jthorpe]

I do the passenger side almost always, unless I'm on a small road with good visibility. The only thing I don't like is that if you have to have someone sign a citation, you would have to give them the clipboard. I don't give them my clipboard. I'm curious what you all do.

[Xaque]

I do the passenger side almost always, unless I'm on a small road with good visibility. The only thing I don't like is that if you have to have someone sign a citation, you would have to give them the clipboard. I don't give them my clipboard. I'm curious what you all do.

In Mass I don't need a signature. Infact, if the op is being difficult, a could just through the completed cite on their dash and leave.

(I was told it stems from officer safety, as handing the op the clipboard and pen is the same as handing them a weapon.)

[LA DEP]

Driver's side.....I dont do stops on the freeway (I'm ascared of the freeway)........off set the hoop and leave about 1/2-1 car length space in between.....

[Jaded745]

Handing over the citebook with the pen isn't that big of an issue. If they use it as a weapon, I've got better tools in my arsenal (asp, taser, sap, pepper spray, etc).

To "Xaque" - in CA, if they refuse to sign the tickie, they can get arrested and hauled to the pokey! :D

[Fella]

If my spidey senses are tingling I'll call for another unit prior to the stop and do a two officer approach, one on each side. For the other stops I like to see what the driver's up to so I approach on the driver side. I always keep the cruiser about two car lengths back and offset so the centre of my hood is roughly in line with the driver side of the violator's vehicle. Once I've had a good look inside the car I constantly divide my attention between the driver and approaching traffic. I also don't proceed past the "B" pillar and I shine my flashlight into the sideview mirror when I approach at night. I like to be the only one with night vision.

On those occassions when the mumbley doesn't pull over far enough to allow me to offset, I approach on the passenger side. As a rule I don't like the passenger side because I don't like reaching in to get the docs.

There's going to be risk no matter what you do. I suppose it's best to find what you're comfortable with and try different things so you can adapt to each situation. The same approach won't work for every stop.

[Xaque]

...As a rule I don't like the passenger side because I don't like reaching in to get the docs...

Even when I'm on the driver's side I never reach in. I always make the Op strain and stretch to make sure I get the documents I need in hand. (Including making them remove registrations from folders or envelopes... I'll wait ;) )

-Zack

[Jaded745]

I echo what Zack says about not reaching in to get stuff from the occupants. I make them reach to get the stuff to me.

Also, when I said I mix up my approaches, it extends during the duration of the stop too. Say I'll approach on driver's side initially, then after walking back to my vehicle to run for wants/warrants etc, I'll re-approach on the passenger side. Vice versa in other situations. Once again, keeps 'em guessing as to where I'll pop up next. :)

[patroldog]

If your Dept. Regs. allow, never, ever, walk up to the stopped vehicle. I always get on the PA and have the driver exit the vehicle and step to the rear of his vehicle with drivers license, registration and proof of insurance. If traffic or road conditions make this approach dangerous, i wait until I get to a safe place to conduct the stop, officer safety takes priority.

[LA DEP]

If your Dept. Regs. allow, never, ever, walk up to the stopped vehicle. I always get on the PA and have the driver exit the vehicle and step to the rear of his vehicle with drivers license, registration and proof of insurance. If traffic or road conditions make this approach dangerous, i wait until I get to a safe place to conduct the stop, officer safety takes priority.

Please esplain further

[Xaque]

If your Dept. Regs. allow, never, ever, walk up to the stopped vehicle. I always get on the PA and have the driver exit the vehicle and step to the rear of his vehicle with drivers license, registration and proof of insurance. If traffic or road conditions make this approach dangerous, i wait until I get to a safe place to conduct the stop, officer safety takes priority.

It is my understanding that this is common practice across the Atlantic... which would be swell when it's raining.

But I feel that it would be safer to be outside of the vehicle and have the option to move, or cover ones self. Opposed to be seated (er, "trapped") in the front of my cruiser as I direct an operator to come to me.

Infact, if I see an operator getting out of his car, I will direct him back in.

I am intrigued to hear your reasoning!

-Zack

[Sabre]

If your Dept. Regs. allow, never, ever, walk up to the stopped vehicle. I always get on the PA and have the driver exit the vehicle and step to the rear of his vehicle with drivers license, registration and proof of insurance. If traffic or road conditions make this approach dangerous, i wait until I get to a safe place to conduct the stop, officer safety takes priority.

I can't see how this is safer. Outside of the car they have the freedom of movement to charge you, tackle you, punch you, kick you, draw a pistol and shoot you, etc. In the car at least they are sitting down and I'm behind them. Their freedom of movement is restricted so they can't punch me or kick me. If they want to shoot me they have to shoot to their rear.

I guess the reasoning for getting them out of the car is that the things that are in the car, but not on the persons body, are the real danger. I disagree.