About Traffic Police
Traffic police are generally part of an internal division of a law enforcement agency. Their primary responsibility is to enforce state and municipal traffic laws, which is accomplished both by their mere presence on city streets and through the issuance of traffic citations. Traffic police officers are also usually the only division within a police or sheriff's department who use a motorcycle.
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The Purpose of Traffic Police
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The main purpose of traffic police is to improve road safety by helping ensure that drivers obey traffic laws and speed limits, conducting traffic collision investigations, and directing traffic during emergencies.
How to Become a Traffic Officer
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Traffic officers are usually assigned to work in the department and receive all the same law enforcement training and instruction that other members of the force undertake. They also carry a firearm, baton and all other standard police supplies. In addition, they may receive specialized training in traffic safety, traffic homicide investigations and police motorcycle operations. Motorcycle officers also are required to obtain a license to operate a motorcycle.
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Duties of a Traffic Officer
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Traffic Police are primarily responsible for the investigation of traffic collisions, traffic related crimes and the enforcement of state vehicle code regulations. They are first responders and thus will respond to all emergencies and requests for police assistance.
Most Common Violations Traffic Officers Encounter
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The most common traffic violations, according to the Los Angeles Police Department, are: failing to stop for a red light; driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs; driving faster than the speed limit; making an unsafe left turn when opposing traffic has the right of way; and following too closely behind other vehicles.
Special Assignments
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Occasionally traffic police will be required to escort very important individuals, such as a renowned foreign dignitary or the President of the United States, to specified locations.
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