What is a primary reason a traffic stop may lead to an arrest?

A primary reason a traffic stop may lead to an arrest is the seriousness of the violation. When a law enforcement officer stops a vehicle, several factors about the nature of the violation can determine whether an arrest is warranted. For example, if the driver is found to be operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if they have outstanding warrants or are in possession of illegal substances or weapons, the severity of these offenses can necessitate an arrest.

Driving offenses that pose significant risks to public safety, such as reckless driving or driving without a valid license, also tend to be taken more seriously by officers. In these situations, the officer's assessment of the threat to safety and compliance with the law plays a critical role in deciding to proceed with an arrest rather than issuing a citation or warning.

Other factors, like the presence of multiple passengers, issued warnings from previous stops, or the time of day, may inform an officer’s decision-making process but do not necessarily indicate a direct cause for arrest when compared to the gravity of the violation itself.