The Roads of England and Wales can be dangerous places at times, especially when they are used by the likes of drunken, drugged and uninsured drivers. The roads that link our communities are also very important aspects of our infrastructure and without them, our country could come to a grinding halt. For this reason, the traffic police have to keep our roads safe and flowing smoothly; not only to keep us safe, but to keep us connected as well. Police powers road traffic issues are very important for both our safety and economy.

Police powers road traffic covers a large area and several domains. The police are very well trained and can spot possible driving offences before they even stop you. They can spot anyone driving under the influence whilst on the road and can also pull you over for offences such as a poorly maintained vehicle.

Traffic police can stop you on the roads at any time they like and are not obliged to specify their reason for doing so. Quite often they will ask a suspect to produce proof of insurance or a driving license. Since many people don't carry all of these documents around in their car, wisely if it gets stolen, you will be given seven days in which you must produce the required documentation at a police station.

For many offences, the police can issue a fixed penalty notice and then leave it at that – providing it's paid in time. This fine means you will not be prosecuted and there will be no record of your actions. This is appropriated with smaller misdemeanour's such as not wearing a seat belt. If you do not wish to pay the fine then you can contest the decision in court although you may be risking a prosecution.

The police are also able to request a breath sample. This is not an option if the police suspect you of drink driving and failure to provide a sample is sufficient reason for arrest. It is not an admission of guilt but failing to provide a sample may be very suggestive.

Police powers road traffic stretch to taking a vehicle off the road. This can be because it is stolen or not fit for purpose. The police cannot allow dangerous vehicles to remain on the road as they can cause a possible harm to the public. Heavy and fast moving vehicles are not a good idea in the wrong hands or in bad condition.

Police powers road traffic are a useful and important part of police work. The roads need to be kept safe as they are possibly the most dangerous part of our country. The police have the power to stop, search and remove a vehicle from the road. They need this power to keep us safe and to prevent catastrophic accidents. Police powers are much stronger in this area as they need not even give a reason for why a car is stopped. They need this and we need them to keep us safe on the roads.

To return to the list of articles click here: police information