What can an officer do to a driver and passengers during a stop?

During a lawful traffic stop, an officer has the authority to order both the driver and passengers out of the vehicle. This is based on legal precedents that allow officers to ensure their safety and maintain control of the situation. When officers make a stop, they may have concerns about their safety, especially if they believe there could be weapons involved or if the circumstances of the stop are uncertain.

Ordering occupants out of the vehicle is a reasonable action that helps officers to assess the situation more effectively. It also minimizes the risk of escalation and ensures that everyone remains in a safe environment while the stop is taking place. It should be noted that the requirement for the stop to be lawful is crucial; officers can only exercise this authority when there is a valid reason for the traffic stop in the first place.

The other options don't reflect the full scope of an officer's authority. For instance, simply asking for identification does not encompass the procedural steps that may be taken during a stop, and searching the vehicle would typically require probable cause or consent. Issuing a ticket without questioning overlooks the officer's ability to gather information pertinent to the violation.