Which of the following is an exigent circumstance?

• A. Routine vehicle stop
• B. Waiting for a warrant
• C. Emergency Medical & Protection/Safety
• D. Routine frisk for weapons

Answer: (C)

Exigent circumstances are situations where taking immediate action is necessary to protect life or safety or to prevent the imminent destruction of evidence. In the emergency medical and protection/safety scenario, there is a clear, urgent need to render aid or prevent harm right away. Delaying to get a warrant or waiting for more information could put someone at risk, so officers are justified in acting without a warrant.

The other options describe routine or standard procedures rather than urgent, life-or-safety needs. A routine vehicle stop rests on reasonable suspicion and does not require immediate action to prevent harm. Waiting for a warrant is the opposite of exigency, since it implies delaying action. A routine frisk for weapons is an investigative step under Terry based on reasonable suspicion, not an acute life-threatening emergency.