What is the primary responsibility of an officer when pacing a violator's vehicle?

The primary responsibility of an officer when pacing a violator's vehicle is to form an opinion on the speed and verify it safely. This involves maintaining a safe distance behind the violator while matching their speed to accurately determine how fast they are driving. Pacing is a legitimate method for speed enforcement, allowing the officer to gather enough evidence to confirm that a violation has occurred.

The process requires careful observation and assessment rather than impulsive actions. It is crucial for the officer to ensure that pacing is done safely, both for their own safety and the safety of other road users. This careful approach helps to prevent unnecessary high-speed chases, which can endanger lives.

The other options reflect actions that may be taken in some circumstances but do not encapsulate the primary responsibility during the pacing process. Initiating a pursuit immediately can be dangerous and is typically reserved for more serious offenses. Issuing a ticket upon the first observation without verifying speed risks inaccuracies, and requesting backup before engaging is not relevant to the pacing technique itself.