When ever possible and especially at night I try to avoid sitting in my car to write a citation. I will take the citation to the right rear of my vehicle where I can overwatch the vehicle and occupants while writing the citation.
This puts me where the violator isn’t exepecting me to be. It’s amazing the shocked looks on the faces if they get out of the car and come back to find you not there. That extra distance can also give more reaction time and more cover if needed.