Traffic Law Enforcement and Crash Investigation 7/16/2024

Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of traffic law enforcement?

To increase revenue

To punish violators

To alter favorably the violator's future driving habits (correct)

To enhance officer discretion

What is an essential element of any enforcement action?

Strict adherence to procedures

Public opinion

Officer discretion (correct)

Stringent punishment

Who is responsible for traffic crash investigation in unincorporated areas of Escambia County?

Emergency Medical Services

Florida Highway Patrol (correct)

Local law enforcement agencies

Escambia County Sheriff's Office

What is the primary responsibility of law enforcement agencies in incorporated cities?

Investigating crashes Signup and view all the answers

What should Communications Unit members do after receiving information from an officer at a crash scene?

Notify the appropriate agency Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an officer's first response at a traffic crash scene?

To secure the scene Signup and view all the answers

What type of actions may be substituted for arrest or citation in some circumstances?

Warning or other non-punitive actions Signup and view all the answers

What is the desired outcome of traffic law enforcement?

Favorable public attitude Signup and view all the answers

Which agency will investigate crashes occurring on private property resulting from a vehicle leaving the roadway?

Florida Highway Patrol Signup and view all the answers

In what situation will an officer transport an ill or injured person?

Only in extreme emergencies and with supervisor approval Signup and view all the answers

Who will provide escorts for dignitaries and public officials?

Escorts will be provided when requested by the FBI, Secret Service, or when directed by the appropriate agency authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an officer when assisting other emergency vehicles?

To clear intersections so the emergency vehicle may proceed safely Signup and view all the answers

What type of patrol is used to highlight specific violations?

Preventive patrol Signup and view all the answers

What is a verbal warning used for?

For minor inadvertent infractions Signup and view all the answers

Who will receive a written warning?

Violators of newly enacted laws or regulations, among others Signup and view all the answers

What is an officer required to do once a Uniform Traffic Citation is completed?

Present the violator with their copy and explain Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of saturation patrols?

To target specific violations Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of agency traffic enforcement efforts?

To reduce traffic crashes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of positioning a vehicle with blue lights activated at a crash scene?

To provide maximum protection to the crash scene without endangering the public Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they suspect a hazardous material incident as a result of a traffic crash?

Isolate the area, secure the scene, and advise the Communications Unit Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they come across a hit-and-run crash?

Follow the same procedures as for other crashes and attempt to obtain a description of the suspect vehicle and driver Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of officers in traffic crashes with no injuries, no obstruction to traffic, and no other requirement for law enforcement assistance?

Leave the scene after the appropriate investigating agency has been notified Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they need to secure an owner's property at the scene of a crash?

Turn the property over to the investigating officer or inventory and turn it in to Evidence Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they need to expedite the removal of vehicles and debris from the roadway?

Contact the Communications Unit and provide the vehicle descriptions and location for the investigating agency Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of officers in evaluating a crash?

Determine the number and extent of injuries at the scene and request additional units for traffic control Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they identify special hazards at a crash scene?

Report the hazards to the Communications Unit and request additional units for traffic control Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if they are involved in a crash with no injuries and minor damage?

Mark the location of the vehicles and require drivers to move them from the roadway Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of officers in securing a crash scene?

Establish and maintain a safe traffic pattern and secure the scene Signup and view all the answers

What information is included on the citation?

The violator's personal information, vehicle information, law violated, and options for response Signup and view all the answers

How many days does a violator have to respond to a non-criminal citation?

30 calendar days Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a violator refuses to sign a citation?

It is considered a second-degree misdemeanor and an arrest-able offense Signup and view all the answers

When is a court appearance mandatory?

Only for criminal violations Signup and view all the answers

What is placed on the back of the court copy of the citation in certain situations?

An inked print of the violator's right thumb Signup and view all the answers

What is required for criminal traffic violations that result in a physical arrest?

Both an offense report and an arrest report Signup and view all the answers

What is written in the signature line on a citation resulting in a physical arrest?

The word 'BONDED' Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence for a violator who knowingly drives while their license is suspended or revoked?

A custodial arrest Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of requiring a violator's signature on a citation?

To acknowledge receipt of the citation Signup and view all the answers

What type of violation may result in a custodial arrest?

Fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure for military personnel when a custodial arrest is made?

Jail personnel notify the Navy Police at Pensacola Naval Air Station. Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment of non-resident motorists?

They are treated the same as resident motorists. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of radar detection?

To detect speeding vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for radar operators?

They must complete an approved radar operator school. Signup and view all the answers

How often must radar units be calibrated and re-certified?

Every six months. Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure for pace detection?

An officer must use a certified speedometer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure for equipment violations?

The violator can present the repaired vehicle for inspection. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of traffic stops for minor equipment violations?

All of the above. Signup and view all the answers

What must an officer do before issuing a citation for an equipment violation?

Confirm the 30-day limit has not expired. Signup and view all the answers

What happens after a violator presents a repaired vehicle for inspection?

The inspecting officer escorts the violator to the Finance Office. Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure for operators of off-road or all-terrain vehicles under 16 years old?

They are required to wear a Department of Transportation approved helmet. Signup and view all the answers

What is the officer's consideration when dealing with public carriers and commercial vehicles?

The safety of passengers or cargo. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of issuing multiple citations?

To prioritize the seriousness and safety aspects of the violations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the officer's responsibility in pedestrian or bicycle violations?

To take corrective action to assist in decreasing pedestrian and bicycle crashes with motor vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of notifying officers of newly enacted laws or ordinances?

To provide a grace period in the enforcement of newly enacted traffic laws. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when dealing with a driver who has a suspended or revoked license?

Confirm through DHSMV via the Communications Unit that a driver’s license has been suspended or revoked. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of seizing a tag?

To notify the driver of the suspension. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when seizing a tag?

Remove the tag from the vehicle and return the registration to the driver. Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure after paying an inspection fine?

The inspecting officer will complete the affidavit of compliance on the back of the citation once the inspection fine has been paid. Signup and view all the answers

When can an officer choose not to seize a tag?

When the owner presents proof of insurance and a receipt for the reinstatement fee Signup and view all the answers

What is the process for seizing a driver's license?

The officer attaches it to the Uniform Traffic Citation and forwards it to the Traffic Office Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the DHSMV Driver's License Division Request for Reexamination or Medical Reporting form?

To request a reexamination of a driver's licensure Signup and view all the answers

What is the policy regarding the use of seat belts and child restraint devices by agency members?

They must comply with state statutes regarding their use Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence for an agency member who suffers an injury that could have been prevented by wearing a seat belt?

Disciplinary action and potentially reduced worker's compensation benefits Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office regarding seat belt and child restraint device laws?

To enforce these laws and implement policy for agency members Signup and view all the answers

What is the process for submitting a seized tag?

The Evidence Custodian submits it to DHSMV Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Uniform Traffic Citation?

To cite a driver for a traffic violation Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for passengers under the age of three (3) years?

They must be transported in a separate carrier or an integrated child seat Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office regarding habitual traffic offenders?

To take enforcement action against habitual offenders Signup and view all the answers

Why should spotlights be avoided during a vehicle stop?

To avoid hazarding another driver or backup unit. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do after exiting the patrol vehicle during a vehicle stop?

Remain behind the door and give voice commands. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when using a public-address system during a vehicle stop?

Direct individual occupants to exit the vehicle separately. Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason for impounding a motor vehicle under the specified circumstances?

Both a and b Signup and view all the answers

What is required for officers directing and controlling traffic?

A whistle, a flashlight or traffic wand, and a portable radio. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary step an officer must take before impounding a vehicle?

Check the vehicle's registration Signup and view all the answers

What should plainclothes officers do when directing traffic?

Display their badge and wear a reflective vest. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the vehicle is not released within 35 days after impoundment?

A lien is placed upon the vehicle by the towing company Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of hand signals when directing traffic?

To indicate directions to drivers. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for an officer to release the impounded vehicle to the owner?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do when directing pedestrian traffic?

Coordinate pedestrian traffic into the traffic pattern. Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do with the seized vehicle tag?

Turn it into Evidence Room with a copy of the teletype Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the first officer arriving at a traffic scene?

To coordinate traffic control responsibilities with other responding officers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of completing a Uniform Traffic Citation?

To document the traffic stop Signup and view all the answers

What is the officer's primary concern during a vehicle stop?

Maximum safety for officers, violators, and other roadway users Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do when handling unexpected traffic direction and control duties?

Wear a reflective vest as soon as practical. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of selecting positions that are visible to drivers and pedestrians?

To provide a full view of the intersections or scene. Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do after requesting a rotation wrecker?

Advise Communications on channel 7 Signup and view all the answers

What is required if the officer seizes any items and turns them in to evidence?

An offense/incident report Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do with the invalid driver's license if the driver had it in their possession?

Attach it to the tow bill and Uniform Traffic Citation Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when stopping a vehicle on a hill or curve?

Avoid stopping the vehicle on a hill or curve Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of activating emergency lights and/or sirens during a traffic stop?

To signal the driver to stop Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can unmarked Sheriff's Office vehicles be used for traffic enforcement?

If the vehicle is equipped with emergency equipment Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do if a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or other substances stops in an undesirable location?

Use the public-address system to direct the driver Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position of the patrol vehicle during a traffic stop?

Approximately two car lengths behind the violator's vehicle, with the left front offset three feet to the left Signup and view all the answers

What is the officer's responsibility during a high-risk stop?

To observe the vehicle from a safe distance and wait for backup units to arrive Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do when approaching the driver's side of the vehicle during a traffic stop?

Approach from the rear of the violator's vehicle, checking the rear seat area for passengers or weapons Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the passenger officer during a traffic stop made by two officers in the same vehicle?

To act as an observer and cover the approaching officer Signup and view all the answers

When making a high-risk stop, where should the officer position the patrol vehicle?

At least two car lengths behind the suspect vehicle, offset three feet to the left Signup and view all the answers

What should the officer do after stopping a vehicle driven by a wanted or suspected felon?

Keep the suspect vehicle within view and request assistance in making the traffic stop Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the OIC of the Traffic Unit in the process of invalidating a citation?

To verify the invalidation of the citation Signup and view all the answers

When must the Traffic Unit list voided citations on a transmittal form?

According to DHSMV guidelines Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of conducting an audit of citation information?

To verify the accuracy of citation information Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the results of each audit?

They are submitted in writing to the Community Relations OIC Signup and view all the answers

What type of data is made available to the public upon request?

Analysis reports and crash data Signup and view all the answers

Where are records of all audits maintained?

In the traffic unit Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct way to use whistle blasts when directing pedestrians?

Use moderate volume whistle blasts Signup and view all the answers

When using a traffic wand, what should the officer do to signal a 'stop'?

Hold the wand vertically and swing it from left to right Signup and view all the answers

Who has the authority to direct traffic at fire scenes?

Firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a flashlight when directing traffic at night?

To stop traffic by swinging the beam of light Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do if they are assigned to a post at a special event and need to respond to an emergency?

Leave the post and respond to the emergency Signup and view all the answers

Who is in command of a checkpoint operation?

A supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when using a traffic wand to command a 'go' or turns?

Use the same gestures as described in hand signals Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of manual control of traffic signals?

To direct traffic during emergencies Signup and view all the answers

Who will evaluate and plan traffic assistance requests for special events?

The Officer In-Charge of the Uniform Service Section Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when directing pedestrians across the road?

Point in the same direction as the traffic flow Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the briefing before a checkpoint operation?

To brief members on the purpose, limitations, and individual responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for a checkpoint operation?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the receipt, distribution, and reconciliation of Uniform Traffic Citations?

The Traffic Unit Signup and view all the answers

What happens when an officer issues a citation that is later voided?

The officer must return the original and all copies of the citation to the Traffic Unit Signup and view all the answers

Who is required to sign the accountability receipts for citations?

The receiving officer Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure when a citation is lost or stolen?

The officer must immediately notify their supervisor and complete an Email Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Traffic Unit OIC?

To ensure accurate records are maintained for all traffic and DUI citation books Signup and view all the answers

Why would an officer void a citation?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of disposing of a traffic citation or copies thereof in a manner other than as required?

Official misconduct Signup and view all the answers

What happens to an officer's citation book when they retire, resign, or are terminated?

The officer must return the citation book to the Traffic Unit Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Traffic Enforcement and Control

The Escambia County Sheriff's Office aims to enforce traffic laws in a fair, consistent, and courteous manner to foster a positive public attitude.
Officers have discretion to draw upon their training, common sense, and sound judgment to exercise discretion in evaluating the seriousness of the violation and circumstances.

Accidents and Crash Scene Control

The Sheriff's Office has delegated the responsibility of traffic crash investigation in unincorporated areas to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Officers may be required to respond to the scene of crashes involving death or injury, hit and run, DUI, damage to public property, hazardous materials, disturbance between principals, or major traffic congestion.
Officers will position their vehicles with activated blue lights to provide maximum protection to the crash scene without endangering the public.
Officers will evaluate the crash, determine the number and extent of injuries, request additional units for traffic control, and request medical assistance as needed.

Escorts

Officers will not escort vehicles driven by civilians who have a medical emergency, but will summon Escambia County Emergency Medical Services for treatment/transport of the ill or injured person(s).
Officers will assist other emergency vehicles when requested and clear intersections to ensure safe passage.
Escorts may be provided for dignitaries and public officials when requested by the FBI, Secret Service, or when directed by the appropriate agency authority.

Enforcement Techniques

Agency traffic enforcement efforts will be directed towards violations that most often result in traffic crashes.
Enforcement techniques include public awareness and education, area, line, or directed visible patrols, overt and covert stationary observation, unmarked and semi-marked vehicles in specialized enforcement operations, preventive patrols, saturation patrols, safety and sobriety checkpoints, and analysis of traffic enforcement activities.

Enforcement Actions

Officers have the option to issue a verbal warning, written warning, Uniform Traffic Citation (UTC), or make an arrest for traffic law violations.
Verbal warnings will not be used to scold, belittle, or berate the violator.
Written warnings may be issued for minor equipment violations, non-moving violations, moving violations of a minor nature, minor violations committed by foreign or out-of-state drivers, and violations of newly enacted laws or regulations.
Uniform Traffic Citations will be completed in accordance with the Division of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) Uniform Traffic Citation Manual.

Military Personnel and Non-Residents

Military personnel are not afforded special privileges or consideration for violations of traffic laws.
Non-resident motorists are not granted special privileges or considerations, unless the traffic regulation violated is unique to the area.

Violation Guidelines

Speed violations will be enforced and processed in conformance with Chapter 316, Florida Statutes, Traffic Control.
Radar detection procedures require certification through the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, proper care and upkeep of radar units, calibration and re-certification every six months, and visual verification and record of the digital reading of the target vehicle's speed.
Pace detection involves an officer using a certified speedometer to pace a speeding vehicle, with speedometers calibrated every six months.
Other moving and non-moving violations will be enforced according to established arrest and warning procedures.
DUI violations will be enforced according to the General Order 523, DUI Enforcement Program.
Equipment violations will be enforced, with offenders able to present repaired vehicles for inspection and payment of a fee.
Off-road vehicles require helmet use for operators under 16 years old, and violations will be enforced accordingly.
Public carriers and commercial vehicles will be handled similarly to other vehicles, with consideration for passenger and cargo safety.### Custodial Arrest
Officer issues a Uniform Traffic Citation (UTC) for the appropriate charge
Completes an arrest report and offense report
Attaches the driver's license, a copy of the FCIC/NCIC confirmation of the suspension, and a copy of the arrest report to the UTC

Non-Custodial Arrest

Officer issues a UTC as a Notice to Appear
Court date is entered on the citation
Violator's right thumbprint is affixed to the court copy
Driver's license is attached to the UTC

Tag Seizure

Officer confirms "seize tag" order through DHSMV via Communications Unit
Removes tag from vehicle
Writes "Tag Seized" across the front of the registration, if available, and returns it to the driver
Issues a citation for driving with a suspended license and completes an offense report
Attaches a printout of the driver's license status to the original citation
Submits the seized tag to the Evidence Unit

Possession of a Suspended or Revoked License

Officer seizes the driver's license and delivers it to the Traffic Office

Request for Driver Reexamination

Officer completes the DHSMV Driver's License Division Request for Reexamination or Medical Reporting form
Verifies that the information contained in the request addresses the nature of the problem, including all physical defects
Establishes that reasonable grounds for the reexamination exist
Forwards the completed form to the nearest DHSMV office

Enforcement of Seat Belt Usage and Child Restraint Requirements

Officer issues Uniform Traffic Citations to drivers found to be in violation of Florida Statute regarding Seat Belt Usage and Child Restraint Requirements
Agency members must comply with the requirements of the state statute regarding Seat Belt Usage and Child Restraint Devices while operating or riding in agency vehicles
Passengers under the age of 18 years must be properly restrained for their personal safety

Habitual Traffic Offenders

Officer impounds a motor vehicle owned by persons previously convicted of driving with a suspended license
Officer determines by registration that the driver is either the owner or co-owner of the vehicle
Requests a rotation wrecker from Communications to impound the vehicle
Allows owner to remove any personal items from the vehicle
Advises owner that the vehicle will remain impounded until one of the following conditions are met:
- The owner presents proof of insurance
- The owner presents proof that the vehicle has been sold
- The owner obtains a court order to have the vehicle released
If proof is not presented within 35 days after the impoundment, a lien will be placed upon the vehicle

Vehicle Stops

Officer attempts to stop the violator in an area with ample space and lighting
Notifies Communications of the tag number, tag state, vehicle description, and location
Activates emergency lights and/or siren to make presence known and signal the driver to stop
Positions the patrol vehicle approximately two car lengths behind the violator's vehicle
Approaches the driver from the rear of the violator's vehicle while checking the rear seat area for passengers or weapons

High-Risk Stops

Officer notifies Communications immediately if the vehicle is driven by a wanted or suspected felon
Informs the dispatcher of the vehicle tag, tag state, a description of the vehicle, location, and description of the occupants
Keeps the suspect vehicle within view and requests assistance in making the traffic stop
Positions the patrol vehicle to the rear of the suspect vehicle when conditions are appropriate and backup units are available
Uses spotlights to light up the suspect's vehicle interior after it has stopped### Public Transportation Access
Emergency vehicle access is essential in public transportation
Coordination with other public service and transportation agencies is necessary
News media access is important for public notification
Public notice of temporary changes in street utilization, parking availability, public transportation services, and parade route is crucial

Checkpoints

Checkpoint operations can be used for DUI, vehicle defects, and/or driver license enforcement
Operations must be conducted in strict conformance to federal and state guidelines
A detailed written plan must be submitted to the OIC of the Uniformed Service Section for approval
One supervisor will be in command of the operation
Members will be briefed on the purpose of the operation, limitations imposed, and their individual responsibilities
All members must be in uniform and marked patrol vehicles must be clearly visible
Checkpoints must be in an area with sufficient lighting and space for traffic safety
An escape route must be provided for officers and the public
Inconvenience/intrusion to motorists must be minimal

Traffic Record System

The Traffic Unit is responsible for the receipt, distribution, and reconciliation of Uniform Traffic Citations, DUI Traffic Citations, Warning Citations, and Parking Tickets
It is unlawful for any officer or member of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office to dispose of a traffic citation or copies thereof in a manner other than as required
Citation books will be stored in secure locations and issued only by the Traffic Unit OIC or his/her designee(s)
Accurate records must be maintained for all traffic and DUI citation books
The receiving officer will ensure all citations are present and sign the accountability receipts for the citations
Officers who issue citations will route copies to the Traffic Unit
The Traffic Unit will complete a Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (DHSMV) citation transmittal form
The transmittal form and copies of citations will be distributed in compliance with DHSMV Uniform Traffic Citation Procedures Manual guidelines

Traffic Citation Procedures

Officers are authorized to void citations that they have issued
Justification for voiding a citation may include: the violator locates his/her driver license, registration, or proof of insurance during the initial contact
Citations that are being voided or declared spoiled must be returned with the original and all copies to the Traffic Unit
The officer will sign the signature line on the citation and write the word "VOID" or "SPOILED" on the face of the citation
The officer will complete an E-mail detailing the reason for voiding or how the citations became spoiled

Traffic Analysis

The agency will maintain records on traffic enforcement including citations, arrests, dispositions, and locations
Analysis reports and crash data are available to the public upon request to the Department of Transportation

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Description

Quiz on traffic law enforcement, crash investigation, and communication protocols. Covers roles and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies and communication units.