While talking to the violator, an officer should:

• A. All of the above
• B. Look for contraband
• C. Pay attention to odors coming from the vehicle
• D. Make sure he can see the driver's hands at all times

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is officer safety during a stop: keep the driver’s hands in plain sight at all times while you’re talking with them. When you can see their hands, you’re better able to detect any sudden movements and respond quickly, which reduces the risk of surprise or harm. This visibility also reinforces control of the encounter and helps you maintain a safe, predictable interaction.

Observing for contraband or odors can be relevant in the broader stop, but these actions depend on proper procedures and authority and aren’t the priority during the conversation itself. They’re not requirements in this moment if they would distract from keeping hands visible and maintaining safety.