During a traffic stop, which action regarding hand positioning is recommended?

• A. Keep hands hidden from the officer.
• B. Pull over safely, keep hands visible, remain in the vehicle unless told otherwise, and comply with instructions.
• C. Open the door and step out immediately.
• D. Turn off the engine and exit the vehicle before the officer approaches.

Answer: (B)

During a traffic stop, the priority is to minimize risk by making your actions predictable and visible to the officer. Keeping your hands clearly visible and staying in the vehicle unless instructed otherwise shows cooperation and reduces the chance the officer perceives a threat. Sit with your hands on the steering wheel or in plain view, and only move them after you’ve announced what you’re going to do and have been told to proceed. If you need to reach for documents like your license or registration, tell the officer what you’ll do and wait for their cue before reaching. This approach helps the officer monitor your movements and respond calmly, which makes the stop safer for both of you. Moving to hide your hands, exiting the vehicle on instinct, or turning off the engine and leaving before the officer approaches can be misread as evasive or threatening, so they’re not recommended.