What is the appropriate action when pulling over a motorist at night?

Using flashing lights and possibly a spotlight is the appropriate action when pulling over a motorist at night. This method ensures that your vehicle is highly visible, providing a clear signal to the motorist to stop safely. Flashing lights serve not only to alert the driver but also to make the patrol vehicle noticeable to other drivers on the road, thereby enhancing safety for everyone involved.

Additionally, employing a spotlight can aid in illuminating the area around the vehicle being stopped, allowing the officer to assess the situation better and providing an added layer of safety. It helps to identify the occupants of the vehicle and any potential threats, contributing to overall situational awareness when stopped at night.

In contrast, turning off all lights would create a hazardous situation, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents. Hand signals could be misunderstood in low-light conditions and do not provide the same level of clarity and safety as lights do. Waiting until morning would often not be practical or safe, especially if the situation requires immediate attention. Using lights is essential for effective communication and safety during nighttime traffic stops.