Key Responsibilities:
Traffic Law Enforcement: Enforce local and state traffic laws, including issuing citations for violations such as speeding, reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), seat belt usage, and other traffic-related offenses.
Accident Investigation: Respond to and investigate motor vehicle accidents, including hit-and-runs, collisions involving injuries or fatalities, and property damage. Determine fault, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare accident reports.
DUI Checkpoints & Patrols: Conduct DUI checkpoints and targeted patrols to identify and apprehend impaired drivers, ensuring safe driving conditions and reducing alcohol-related accidents.
Traffic Control & Safety: Assist in directing traffic during major events, accidents, or road closures to maintain the flow of traffic and ensure public safety.
Education & Outreach: Engage with the public through community outreach, public safety campaigns, and educational programs about safe driving practices, seat belt use, and the dangers of distracted or impaired driving.
Collision Reconstruction: For serious accidents, traffic officers may work with specialized investigators to reconstruct accidents, analyzing vehicle damage, road conditions, and other factors to determine how the crash occurred.
Collaboration with Other Divisions: Work in conjunction with other LSPD units, such as Criminal Investigations or K-9, to ensure coordination when traffic violations overlap with criminal activity.
Traffic Data & Reporting: Analyze traffic trends, accident data, and enforce policies to improve road safety in high-risk areas. Maintain accurate records and documentation of incidents and enforcement actions.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Law Enforcement Experience: Previous experience in law enforcement or a law enforcement academy is often required. Experience with traffic-related enforcement or investigations is beneficial.
Knowledge of Traffic Laws: Strong knowledge of traffic regulations, vehicle codes, and driving laws, both at the local and state levels.
Attention to Detail: Strong ability to assess traffic situations, identify violations, and document evidence or accident details accurately.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to assess situations quickly and make sound decisions, particularly in high-pressure environments like accident scenes or DUI stops.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly in writing reports, issuing citations, and explaining traffic laws to the public.
Physical Fitness: Officers may need to perform physically demanding tasks, such as directing traffic or investigating accidents at crash sites, which may involve standing for long periods or handling heavy traffic equipment.
Equipment and Tools:
Radar guns and speed detection devices.
Breathalyzers and field sobriety test equipment for DUI enforcement.
Vehicle accident investigation tools, including cameras, measuring devices, and crash reconstruction software.
Police vehicles equipped with sirens, lights, and communications equipment.
Traffic cones and signs for managing accident scenes and road closures.
Work Environment:
The Traffic Enforcement Division often works outdoors in various weather conditions. Officers typically patrol the city’s roadways, highways, and intersections, responding to accidents or traffic violations. The role can involve irregular hours, including nights and weekends, especially for monitoring traffic during peak times or special events.
This division plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety by enforcing laws, investigating accidents, and educating the public on responsible driving practices to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities.