NCJ Number
82239
Date Published
1981
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This reference manual for police officers discusses tactics and procedures that can be applied directly to the performance of traffic patrol duties.
Abstract
Types of traffic patrol are defined, and objectives of such patrols are outlined, with attention to deterring drivers from violating. Actions that indicate unsafe driving are described, along with typical situations that a traffic patrol officer should look for and look at. Abandoned vehicles, school areas, and points of traffic congestion are considered. Special services provided by traffic patrols are detailed, including accident investigation and traffic direction. The need for guidelines on basic procedures is examined, as is the importance of safe driving and the use of safety equipment. Appropriate techniques for different types of patrol are reviewed. The manual recommends that patrol officers maintain maps and statistics on high accident locations and plan schedules for the day before going to their territories. Practices which can improve an officer's effectiveness are listed, such as mentally describing people or vehicles and looking about as much as possible when driving. Other subjects covered include choosing a patrol speed and pattern, multiple patrol tactics, stationary observation, and traffic foot patrol. Photographs and two references are provided.