What are the three overlapping areas of concern during a vehicle stop assessment?

The three overlapping areas of concern during a vehicle stop assessment are best described by the concepts of pre-contact, environment, and sensory sweep.

Pre-contact refers to the preparation and assessment that takes place before the officer approaches the vehicle. This is crucial because it involves gathering information about the vehicle, the occupants, and any potential risks based on the behavior of the individuals involved and the context of the stop.

The environment encompasses the physical surroundings and context in which the traffic stop is occurring. This includes considerations such as the location, time of day, and potential hazards that could impact officer safety and decision-making.

The sensory sweep involves using all available senses to assess the situation as the officer approaches the vehicle. This includes visual cues, sounds, and even smells that can provide additional information about the occupants or the vehicle itself.

Together, these three areas create a comprehensive approach for officers to ensure their safety and effectively assess the situation during a vehicle stop. This understanding is crucial for making informed, safe decisions in the rapidly evolving context of a traffic encounter.