Traffic control on roads
Traffic control guides road users when there is a road disruption to ensure efficiency and safety. It is extremely important for the safety of road users and construction workers, and to protect the quality of the local environment.
NEED OF TRAFFIC
CONTROL
To organize traffic movement
Traffic control devices direct
vehicles and minimize delays. Everyone needs to know where they can and cannot
go safely. Without traffic control, chaos would ensue at intersections and
around certain areas. Controlling vehicle movement ensures safety and
efficiency.
To prevents accidents and ensure the safety of every road
user
Traffic controls not only control
traffic, they keep it in streamlines meaning there are proper lanes. If there
are not any signs or traffic control persons then there will be chaos and a lot
of accidents could occur.
To save fuels and money
Traffic control signs help you drive
at a constant pace. This burns less fuel than changing speed or continuously
turning your engine on and off. It helps you save and create a better future
for society.
To reduce the severity of incidents
High speed can ruin lives. A good traffic management plan provides drivers with ample warning about slowing down before entering the work area. Speed limit signs and other traffic control equipment help prevent road incidents.
To ensure the success and efficiency of road construction
projects
Traffic control allows construction businesses to complete the work faster. A safe work environment helps workers focus on their work rather than on surrounding potential dangers.
THE ROLE OF A TRAFFIC OFFICER
Traffic Officers play a vital role
in keeping the roads safe. They serve by dealing with general road and traffic
tasks. While this might not seem important, this means that the police can get
on with cases which require their specialised skillset. This is the general
role of a Traffic Officer.
Traffic officers help keep roads and and walkways free of congestion so regular traffic, emergency vehicles and pedestrians can move about safely. Depending on the location, they patrol on foot, by bicycle or in vehicles. Traffic officers typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent, along with a valid driver's license, and they also receive on-the-job training and class instruction. Among other duties, traffic officers enforce parking regulations and issue various citations, such as for illegal parking.
DUTIES AND POWERS OF
TRAFFIC POLICE
1. WARNINGS, CITATIONS AND IMPOUNDING
Sometimes traffic officers issue a warning before issuing a citation. They also check vehicles that are parked in metered parking spots to see if they have been there beyond the time limit. If so, they issue a warning or citation, or in extreme cases, impound the vehicle. Traffic officers are also responsible for impounding vehicles that are illegally parked or abandoned.
2. DIRECTING TRAFFIC
Traffic
officers are responsible for directing traffic during parades, road work or
accidents. Sometimes traffic officers direct pedestrian foot traffic. They may
assume the responsibility of the crossing guard if one is not present. Traffic
officers may also control crowds during emergencies to make sure fire and
rescue workers can get to the scene safely.
3. OTHER DUTIES
Traffic
officers may be asked to testify in court regarding parking violations or
citations. They are usually required to keep a daily log of events during their
shift. This log should include all citations, complaints received and any
special situations. Traffic officers may write reports about any problems they
typically encounter and make recommendations for changes.
