What Are Traffic Officers Authorised To Do On Motorways?

Contents

• Traffic officers operate on motorways and some primary routes in England. What are they authorised to do?
• Keeping the Flow of Traffic:
• Helping Drivers Who Need It:
• First And Foremost Safety
• Working with Police

Have you ever driven an English motorway and seen someone wearing a high-vis jacket with the words Traffic Officer on it? These dedicated individuals are crucial to preserving the security and efficiency of our roadways. However, did you know that when traffic officers operate on motorways what are they authorised to do? 

Traffic officers DO NOT act as police. They are not permitted to issue tickets. They can also not make an arrest for going over the speed limit. But they are allowed to manage traffic flow. They ensure safety on highways and some important routes. 

Keeping the Flow of Traffic:

1. Incident Response: Traffic officers are the first to arrive at scenes of accidents, breakdowns, and other incidents that could cause traffic jams. They check that everything is secure, direct traffic around the obstructive object, and if required call for assistance. 

2. Lane Closures: When lane closures are necessary for maintenance or roadwork, traffic officers handle them by setting up cones, and signs, and directing traffic in a safe manner. 

3. Broken Down Vehicles: To prevent further disruption, traffic cops can help move a car that is sputtering on the hard shoulder to a secure location. 

Helping Drivers Who Need It: 

1. Recovery Assistance: Traffic cops can help arrange for recovery services. If your car breaks down or needs to be recovered, they can help. 

2. Vulnerable Road Users: In the event of an emergency, vulnerable road users receive help from traffic officers. Both cyclists and motorcyclists fall under this category. 

3. Traffic Information: If there is going to be a major accident or road closure you can stay informed in real-time by obtaining information from traffic officers. If necessary they can also help you reroute. 

First And Foremost Safety

1. Reporting Offenses: Despite their lack of authority to fine the relevant parties. Large-scale driving violations can be reported to the police by traffic cops. Like driving under the influence or dangerous driving!

2. Deterring Careless Behavior: Their Presence on the motorway discourages careless driving and encourages drivers to comply with traffic laws. 

3. Driver Safety Awareness: Traffic officers can educate the public about safe motorway practices and raise driver awareness. 

Working with Police:

1. Major Incidents: Traffic officers support law enforcement in securing areas, managing traffic, and ensuring everyone’s safety when there are major accidents or incidents that necessitate their involvement. 

2. Evidence Gathering: At the scene of an accident, traffic cops can assist law enforcement by gathering photographs and witness statements. 

Thus, the next time you see traffic officers on motorway, remember what are traffic officers authorised to do. Their duties include ensuring that traffic flows smoothly. They help out needy drivers and make sure that everyone gets to their destination safely. By understanding their roles and obeying instructions everyone’s experience on the motorway can be made safer and more productive.