AA calls for 1,000 new traffic police officers to increase road safety

The AA has called on the Home Secretary to deploy 1,000 new traffic police officers to increase road safety and tackle criminal activity on the streets and in communities.

The Labour Party’s manifesto includes a commitment to recruit thousands of new police officers to tackle crime in residential areas. The AA is calling for 1,000 of these new officers to be assigned to traffic police forces across the country.

This call, which is part of the AA’s Motoring Manifesto, follows the review of the latest Home Office data on police staffing. As of 31 March 2024, there were 4,215 traffic wardens in England and Wales, a decrease of 1,022 from the peak of 5,237 on 31 March 2016.

According to the AA, the UK government should recruit 1,000 new traffic police officers to improve road safety and reduce overall crime: pic.twitter.com/Bz2cBYuJ6W

— Business Car (@BusinessCar) 16 September 2024

A recent survey of 11,469 drivers found that more than half (57%) believe that reckless driving goes unpunished due to a lack of police presence. In addition, significant proportions of drivers believe that offences such as using a mobile phone while driving (44%), driving under the influence of drugs (42%), not wearing a seatbelt (46%) and driving dangerous vehicles (43%) often go unpunished due to fewer traffic police officers.

Although the increased use of technologies such as AI cameras that can detect other violations in addition to speeding is welcomed, only 15% of drivers believe that cameras alone are sufficient for traffic enforcement, highlighting the need for more traffic police officers.

There is also a strong belief that more traffic cops could help reduce crime beyond traffic violations. 91 percent believe additional traffic cops would increase community safety, and 80 percent believe it could reduce crimes such as drug dealing, human trafficking and car theft.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, highlighted public opinion, saying: “Public opinion suggests that too many people are getting away with traffic offences and other crimes. Increasing the number of police officers is a positive step.”

“A more comprehensive strategy to combat crime is needed and more police on the streets could lead to safer communities and streets. A visible presence acts as a deterrent and signals to criminals that they are more likely to be caught.

“Traffic police often uncover other crimes, such as theft, during routine checks. Cameras can detect speeding, but they cannot stop drivers under the influence of alcohol. Investing in traffic police improves road safety and increases neighborhood safety.”