[simonh]

True, but that particular part of it was written with an absolutely straight face. There could have been a gun in the car, in the glove compartment, etc. In an entire career as an enforcement officer, there's a real chance at some point you will encounter a situation like that. In which case, rationally you have to treat every situation like that. My comment was sarcastic to a point, but these are the real actual, even necessary consequences of near ubiquitous access to guns in a society.

[Ntrails]

I remember seeing a clip of a cop walking up to a car only to get a shotgun unloaded into him as he reached the window to ask for license etc.

Next time he does a traffic stop you can bet he's going to be humourless and aggressive in making sure that the drivers hands are visible - probably with his hand on his weapon. I expect most of the colleagues who spoke to him would also let this influence their attitude.

Being from the UK probably helps - but I have tremendous sympathy for anyone policing under those conditions and how hard it must be to maintain balance.

[cryoshon]

does the ubiquity of guns among the public inspire you to conduct yourself to a high standard during your job?

[simonh]

No, because I live in the UK. I conduct my self to a high standard because it's the right thing to do.