Police touch the back of a car at a stop to check the trunk is latched and to leave fingerprints as evidence, and it also lets the driver know the officer is there.
The reason
Officers touch the rear of the car to leave fingerprints as evidence that they were at the car, and to check that the trunk is latched.
Evidence
Opinions differ on how often fingerprints are used. It remains a safety habit.
Other safety
It also warns people in the car and lets the officer sense movement.
Practice
Not every agency requires it. It’s traditional training.
Note
Some say it’s mostly to confirm the trunk is closed.
Reason given by trainers
Officers sometimes touch the rear of a stopped vehicle as they approach. One reason taught in some police training is to leave fingerprints on the car, which could help investigators if the officer is harmed. Another reason is to make sure the trunk is latched so that no one is hiding inside it. Practices differ by agency, and not all agencies teach it.
- Some departments, including many in the past, taught the technique, but it is not universal and has fallen out of use in places.
- Officers also check the back seat and approach from behind the driver’s door, keeping out of the line of fire.
- The Department of Justice reports that traffic stops carry real risks for officers.
Other safety steps
Drivers can keep their hands visible, turn on the interior light at night, stay in the car unless told to exit and follow instructions calmly. Know your rights: you can remain silent and ask whether you are free to go. Dash and body cameras record many stops. This is general information, not legal advice.
Reason given by trainers
Officers touching the rear of a stopped car leave fingerprints on the vehicle as evidence that they were there, which was useful if something happened to the officer. Today it also lets officers check the trunk latch is closed and avoid someone hiding in the back.
Other safety steps
Officers also approach from the passenger side sometimes, use spotlights and note plates. Drivers should stay calm, keep hands visible and follow instructions.
History of the practice
The technique became common after the 1950s as a way to prove contact and check the trunk. Some departments teach it, though many have dropped it as it exposes the officer to traffic. Officers also use the touch to check that the trunk is latched and to feel for movement inside.
Traffic stop safety facts
The FBI reports dozens of officers are killed in traffic stops or related incidents each year. Drivers should pull over safely, turn on the interior light at night, keep hands visible, and follow instructions. Know your rights: you must provide license, registration and insurance, and you may remain silent beyond that in most states.
Based on data from the FBI and law enforcement training sources
