What should you do first when writing notes on a traffic ticket?

When writing notes on a traffic ticket, the first step should be to write on the enforcement copy. This is crucial for maintaining accurate records of the incident and ensuring that all pertinent information is documented directly on the official ticket. The enforcement copy serves as a reliable source for any follow-up actions, legal proceedings, or questions that may arise regarding the citation.

Documenting information on the enforcement copy helps create a clear and consistent account of the circumstances surrounding the violation, such as the time, date, location, and behavior of the violator. Capturing details directly related to the issuance of the ticket promotes integrity in the documentation process and aids in effective communication between law enforcement, the violator, and the judicial system.

Other methods like writing on the violator's vehicle or using a personal notebook may not provide the necessary formality or structure expected in legal documentation and could lead to confusion or incomplete records. Similarly, recording notes in patrol car logs is important but typically serves a different purpose than documenting the specific details of a traffic citation. Therefore, starting with the enforcement copy ensures that all relevant information is correctly placed in the context of the official ticketing process.