The second purpose of the stop is to serve as a general deterrent to other drivers . Officer s visible presence with a vehicle at the roadside has this symbolic effect on other drivers. Finally, the third purpose is to change the driver s future driving behavior . Officers interaction with drivers during the stop will be a major determining factor in their attitude toward law enforcement in the future. The goal is to achieve voluntary compliance with traffic regulations, but also acceptance of the laws and enforcement.
People are more apt to accept a new or modified behavior if they trust and respect the authority.
This is why professionalism is so important at the traffic stop. In addition, there are other implications of a traffic stop. For example, the stop may detect possible evidence of a more serious offense . In most cases, this can be done by casual observation and questioning, without causing offense. Also, traffic stop encounters can enhance the public relations and image of the law enforcement agency .