During a traffic stop, which action should come after contacting the violator?

After contacting the violator during a traffic stop, it is essential to investigate to establish the individual's identity, the nature of the offences, and determine the appropriate enforcement action. This step is crucial as it allows the officer to gather necessary information, assess the situation appropriately, and make informed decisions regarding the next steps in the enforcement process.

During this phase, verifying the identity of the driver and any passengers can provide insights into potential issues, such as outstanding warrants or previous offences. Understanding what violations might have occurred enables the officer to apply the correct enforcement action, whether it's issuing a warning, a ticket, or making an arrest if warranted. Each traffic stop is unique, and this investigative phase is fundamental in ensuring the officer acts within the bounds of the law, adheres to department policies, and prioritizes safety for all parties involved.

The other options are less appropriate following initial contact. Ending the encounter immediately would overlook these vital investigative steps. Querying the violator’s history is a component of the investigative process but is not the immediate next action; it comes after establishing basic contact and context. While calling for backup may be necessary in certain circumstances, it is not a routine action immediately following initial contact unless there is a specific reason to anticipate heightened risk.