NCJ Number
78368
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 54 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1981) Pages: 266-276
Date Published
1981
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Results are presented of a survey of British police officers which was designed to investigate the effectiveness of the matrix signalling system as a means of controlling drivers.
Abstract
A total of 186 questionnaires were completed by operational patrol staff and 78 by control room staff. Most of the officers (80 percent) considered the signals to be inadequate since they were too far apart and could not be enforced. A total of 63 percent considered that the application and control of the matrix signals was to the necessary standard. Officers showed inconsistency in their approach toward the use of speed restrictions in foggy weather; these and other inconsistent policies may be alleviated by standardized police training. Most officers favor a legal change in the status of signals from advisory to mandatory and agree that they should be the sole authority responsible for the operation of the matrix system. A nationally consistent code regarding the numbering of traffic lanes is needed. Eight references are provided.