What is one of the roles of a police officer in regards to traffic?

Traffic investigation is a critical role of a police officer, as it involves the examination and analysis of traffic-related incidents, particularly accidents. When an accident occurs, officers must collect evidence, document the scene, and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, which may include interviewing witnesses and assessing any injuries or property damage. The purpose of this investigation is to establish liability, enforce traffic laws, and provide accurate reports for insurance and legal purposes.

Effective traffic investigation contributes to understanding traffic patterns and safety issues, which can then inform future traffic management and planning strategies. Although traffic management, event planning, and engineering are important aspects of roadway safety and planning, they typically fall outside the immediate duties of a police officer, focusing more on regulatory, planning, or engineering aspects.