What is a traffic stop?

• A. A traffic stop is a mandatory checkpoint for vehicle inspection
• B. A temporary detention of a driver of a vehicle by police to investigate a possible crime
• C. A routine driving behavior warning
• D. A warrantless arrest of a suspect in a vehicle

Answer: (B)

A traffic stop is a temporary detention of a driver by police to investigate a possible crime. When an officer observes a traffic violation or has reasonable suspicion, they pull the vehicle over and briefly interact with the driver, often asking for a license, registration, and proof of insurance. The detention lasts only as long as necessary to address the traffic issue or to investigate the suspected crime. It’s not a mandatory checkpoint, which would stop many vehicles at a set location, nor is it just a routine warning, and it doesn’t by itself constitute an arrest—an arrest would come only if later circumstances establish probable cause.