TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE.

A study was undertaken to review the recent Australian and international literature relating to traffic law enforcement. The specific areas examined included alcohol, speed, seat belts and signalised intersections. The review documents the types of traffic enforcement methods and the range of options available to policing authorities to increase the overall efficiency (in terms of cost and human resources) and effectiveness of enforcement operations. The review examines many of the issues related to traffic law enforcement including the deterrence mechanism, the effectiveness of legislation and the type of legal sanctions administered to traffic offenders. The need to use enforcement in conjunction with educational and environmental/engineering strategies is also stressed. The use of educational programs and measures targeted at modifying the physical and social environment is also briefly reviewed. The review highlights the importance of developing enforcement strategies designed to maximise deterrence whilst increasing both the perceived and actual probability of apprehension. The use of Random Breath Testing (RBT), automated speed and red light enforcement cameras and selective enforcement programs are highlighted. The need for publicity to support enforcement operations, police training and education programs is also documented. The review concludes with a series of recommendations regarding the most promising options available to authorities to improve the effectiveness of traffic law enforcement operations.