Avoid asking a series of random challenging questions just to inflict officer control or to intimidate . Questions should have a purpose and lead to a meaningful conclusion related to the stop. Also, don t automatically get into a higher level of questioning without reasonable suspicion. Avoid automatically talking with violators with your hand on your weapon . Of course, special circumstances and training may dictate otherwise.
Safety is always first.
Appear casual in observing and questioning . Even when initially looking around and inside the vehicle for safety purposes, this should be done in a unobtrusive manner. Use the SOFT approach . A sincere smile doesn t make you less authoritative. Talk with your hands and facial expressions.