What does non-approach vehicle contact entail?

Non-approach vehicle contact involves assessing a situation where there may be potential threats before making physical contact with the vehicle and its occupants. This practice is heavily rooted in officer safety, particularly when there are indications that the driver or passengers may pose a danger. In circumstances where threat assessments dictate that approaching the driver could jeopardize the officer's safety or escalate the situation, it becomes necessary to order the driver out of the vehicle.

This technique allows officers to maintain distance and control over the situation, reducing the risk of harm. By giving clear commands from a safe position, officers can manage the encounter effectively while being vigilant for any signs of aggression or instability from the occupants. Establishing this safe perimeter helps to ensure the officer can act or react as needed without putting themselves at increased risk.

Other options tend to be less focused on the critical assessment and control of safety risks that non-approach vehicle contact requires. Waiting for backup may be prudent in some instances, but it does not specifically represent non-approach contact. Approaching the vehicle calmly may not always be safe or appropriate, especially in high-risk situations. Making contact through the passenger's window also does not align with the primary objective of non-approach vehicle contact, which is to establish