North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which method of observing traffic involves officers hiding to monitor activities?

1. Stationary observation

2. Visible observation

3. Concealed observation

4. Area patrol

The correct answer is: Concealed observation

The method of observing traffic that involves officers hiding to monitor activities is known as concealed observation. This technique allows law enforcement to effectively gather information on traffic behaviors, such as speeding or reckless driving, without drawing attention to their presence. By remaining out of sight, officers can observe more natural traffic patterns and citizen behaviors, leading to more accurate assessments of violations that may not occur if drivers were aware of the police presence. Concealed observation is particularly useful in situations where there may be a high likelihood of infractions happening, as it encourages drivers to behave as they typically would in the absence of law enforcement. This can enhance the effectiveness of traffic enforcement strategies and contribute to road safety. Other methods, such as stationary observation, involve officers monitoring from a fixed location without using concealment, generally making their presence known. Visible observation consists of being clearly seen by the public, which can deter certain traffic violations. Area patrol, on the other hand, refers to officers actively cruising or driving through a designated area rather than remaining hidden to observe activities.