During which step should you maneuver the patrol vehicle through traffic until safely catching up to the violator?

The correct step for maneuvering the patrol vehicle through traffic until safely catching up to the violator occurs during the initial phase of the pursuit process. This phase focuses on assessing the situation and preparing for engagement with the violator. During this step, law enforcement must remain aware of surrounding traffic conditions while safely navigating toward the target.

In this context, it is crucial to maintain visibility and ensure that the patrol vehicle can effectively and safely intercept the violator. Proper maneuvering at the onset allows the officer to quickly close the gap without compromising safety, both for themselves and for other roadway users. This approach establishes control of the situation and lays the groundwork for subsequent actions.

The focus during this step is not just on speed, but on strategic positioning and maintaining a safe distance from the violator while adjusting to traffic dynamics. This helps to ensure that the officer is prepared for further steps involving the engagement and the official traffic stop process.