LESSON 1/TASK 1
various civilian law enforcement agencies may be assisted in their investigations by military police
when traffic accidents involve military vehicles or personnel, depending on the circumstances. On
many installations, the military police operate the vehicle registration program. To enhance safety,
military police often operate speed and intoxication detection devices.
Traffic control studies are often performed by MP. The purpose of the studies is to obtain information
on specific traffic problems and usage patterns. These studies also contribute to the best use of limited
military police assets. The studies assist in determining the most frequent type of accident; places
accidents are most likely to occur; and the location and types of traffic violations that contribute to
accidents and unsafe conditions. The evaluation and processing of much of this data has been
enhanced with automatic data processing equipment. The provost marshal (PM) can then use this
information to determine present and future needs for traffic control and associated traffic programs.
The primary purpose of the entire program is to prevent traffic accidents.
The PM can also use selected information from these studies to analyze past and present alcohol and
drug offenses. He can try to isolate areas that require additional traffic enforcement. Once the PM
identifies the factors involved in drug and alcohol related traffic offenses, he can begin corrective
measures. Corrective measures will involve many of the other staff agencies on the installation, as well
as civilian agencies off the installation.
Results of traffic studies provide MP with information upon which to base measures to prevent
accidents. One method that may be used is to distribute MP effectively on the days, and at the times
and locations, where accidents are most likely to occur. It also allows the effective distribution of MP to
alleviate traffic congestion. Through these studies, MP may determine the type of traffic offenses that
are causing accidents. They can then concentrate on those types and locations of violations.
The effectiveness of the traffic control program can be evaluated through these studies, at least in part.
Driver education and training, as well as pedestrian, programs can be developed. Driver and
pedestrian programs that already exist can be improved. Recommendations on the more effective use
of traffic control devices and other safeguards can be made to the facilities engineer. Traffic flow
patterns may be modified. In some cases, engineering improvements to the road net may be made
that enhance safety
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