9. Checking for Stash Spots
Another reason why police officers and highway patrol personnel do the notorious tapping is to provide the initial shock. You know you did something wrong, especially if you’re hiding something you shouldn’t have in your car. The tapping surprises the people who are in the vehicle, who often look to wherever they hid something out of panic. Even if it’s not on purpose, they might even do it out of habit. If a police officer can get you to look towards your hiding spot, there is a greater chance of them finding it before you can distract them. Many officers say this practice has proven to be quite efficient in routine stops. In fact, many cops claim that it’s increased the arrest of intoxicated drivers, drug dealers, and drivers possessing unlicensed firearms.