What is advisable when an officer approaches your vehicle?

When an officer approaches your vehicle, keeping your hands visible on the steering wheel is advisable because it helps create a sense of safety and assurance for both you and the officer. This action minimizes any perceived threat and demonstrates that you are not reaching for a weapon or anything that could raise concern. It also allows the officer to see your movements clearly, helping to ease any tension in the interaction.

Choosing to reach under your seat for documents can be perceived as a threat by the officer, who may not know your intentions. Turning off the air conditioning does not have a direct impact on the safety of the situation, and starting a conversation might lead to misunderstandings or distractions during the encounter. Therefore, maintaining a calm and open posture with hands visible is the best practice in such scenarios.