What is the first step in the decision-making process to stop a vehicle?

The first step in the decision-making process to stop a vehicle is to observe the surroundings. By doing so, a peace officer assesses the environment and conditions around them, which is crucial before taking any action. Observing the surroundings allows officers to identify potential hazards, evaluate traffic conditions, and determine whether the stop is safe and necessary. This step provides essential context that can influence subsequent actions, ensuring that officers can proceed with caution and awareness of their surroundings, thereby protecting themselves and others.

Evaluating the situation generally follows the observation, as it involves analyzing the gathered information to make a well-informed decision. Communicating with dispatch is typically important during the process but is not the initial step. Implementing the stop comes later after proper observations and evaluations have been made.