Policing the Open Road

Traffic Evolution

The emergence of automobiles in the early 20th century necessitated the creation of traffic laws to ensure road safety. Sarah Seo explains that initially, local governments relied on private citizens and volunteers to enforce these laws, but this approach proved ineffective as drivers frequently violated them, particularly speeding laws 1. Consequently, there was a shift towards professionalizing police departments to handle traffic enforcement. This transition required officers who were knowledgeable about the laws and could command authority over the public 2.

   

Professionalization

The debate over whether police should enforce traffic laws was significant in shaping modern policing. August Vollmer, a key figure in police reform, argued that traffic enforcement was not a task for professional crime fighters, as it consumed much of their time and led to public resentment 2. Despite his opposition, the necessity of managing traffic violations contributed to the expansion and modernization of police forces, as traffic enforcement became intertwined with crime fighting 3.

   

Discretionary Power

The discretionary power granted to police in traffic enforcement has significant implications. Sarah Seo notes that while discretion was initially seen as beneficial, allowing officers to issue warnings instead of tickets, it has led to discriminatory practices, particularly against drivers of color 4. The broad definition of reasonableness in the Fourth Amendment has allowed officers to exercise considerable authority during traffic stops, often leading to searches based on minimal suspicion 5.