MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

During a high-risk traffic stop, where should the primary unit position their vehicle?

1. Behind and offset to the left

2. Behind and offset to the right

3. Behind and offset to the left on an angle

4. In front of the suspect vehicle

The correct answer is: Behind and offset to the right

The most appropriate positioning of the primary unit's vehicle during a high-risk traffic stop is behind and offset to the right. This placement provides several tactical advantages. First, it allows the officer to have a clear line of sight to both the suspect vehicle and the surrounding area, which is crucial for assessing potential threats. Additionally, being offset to the right minimizes the chance of being in the path of return fire from the suspect vehicle while also keeping the officer out of the line of attack if a sudden confrontation occurs. Moreover, positioning the vehicle to the right allows for better cover if the suspect attempts to flee or engage in hostile behavior. It also aids in communication with fellow officers who may be on the scene, ensuring that there is enough space for them to maneuver without unnecessarily obstructing one another’s line of sight or exit routes. Offsetting the vehicle on an angle, while reasonable in some scenarios, can limit visibility and control of the situation. Positioning directly in front of the suspect vehicle presents risks, as it does not provide adequate cover and can lead to the officer being boxed in in case of an escalation. All these considerations denote why being behind and offset to the right is a tactical advantage during high-risk interactions.