Why do police officers have to have one hand on your vehicle when they pull you over?

Question

It's a question for driver's ed... They have one hand on their weapon and put one on your car when they pull you over. Why one hand on the car?

Answer 1

That other hand is usually placed near the opening of the door in the event that that person tries to get out of the vehicle, this is for safety reasons for both you as well as for the police officer.

Answer 2

I'm not sure but i think it's for their safety.  they have one hand on their weapon and one hand on your car...usually by the door incase you try to open the door and run.

Answer 3

They don't in my experience, also this question has nothing to do with driver's ed.  Tell your teacher to ask the police when they pull him over.  Yet alone having their hand on a weapon....  ask a cop, they would only behave in this fashion if they had reason to believe their life was in danger.