What is one main duty of a DPS Trooper during a traffic stop?

The primary responsibility of a DPS Trooper during a traffic stop is to ensure the safety of all parties involved. This encompasses not only the safety of the driver and passengers in the stopped vehicle but also the trooper's own safety and the safety of other road users. This duty includes being vigilant for potential hazards, maintaining situational awareness, and managing the interaction with the driver in a manner that minimizes risk of confrontation or accidents. By prioritizing safety, a trooper can effectively perform their additional duties, such as issuing citations or conducting investigations, without compromising the well-being of anyone present at the scene.

In this context, while issuing parking tickets, conducting random searches, and questioning passengers can be part of a trooper’s broader responsibilities, they do not capture the paramount importance of safety that is at the forefront of actions taken during a traffic stop.