Original post from Tim Lemming of the North Central Georgia Law Enforcement Academy:
If you are out on a suspicious traffic stop and have a feeling the violator is just waiting for you to exit your vehicle before he drives off, keep your high-beams on and your spotlight on his mirror. Next, open your door, but before you get out, slam the door shut and wait a few seconds.
If he was planning on running, you may get the jump on him.
P.S. This should really only be tried at night.
Patrol Officer Carl Harper of the Lower Merion Township, Pa., Police, responds:
If not faced with that feeling where you think a violator will drive off once you exit your vehicle, (See tip from 3/16/05) quietly let the door close/latch when making a night time traffic stop. That slamming door just advertises your position, even if the driver is blinded by overheads and spotlights. Can be especially effective with a passenger side approach.