Law enforcement officials weigh in on traffic stop safety

In the wake of the recent shootings, ABC 17 News took a deeper look at how drivers should respond during a traffic stop.

Detective Tom O’Sullivan with the Boone County Sheriff’s Department says communication is key to keep both the driver and officer safe. He recommends drivers–and all passengers–keep their hands visible, preferably on a steering wheel.

“Because that’s really the only thing in a car that can hurt you are the hands,” O’Sullivan says, adding, ” If you can see the hands, that’s going to give you [the officer] some measure of piece of mind.”

O’Sullivan says drivers need to understand that–from a law enforcement perspective–traffic stops can potentially be incredibly dangerous. That’s why it’s crucial to use common sense, be civil and don’t do anything to escalate the situation. If you have a problem with how the officer responded, you can take that up in a court of law.

Law enforcement officials also say drivers should immediately tell them if they have a license to conceal and carry and then let the officer know where the firearm is located.