TRAFFIC UNIT STAFF AND ASSIGNMENTS
The Reno Police Department's Traffic and Special Events Unit is part of the Operations Division and is comprised of 42 Sworn Officers: 1 Lieutenant, 4 Sergeants, 25 motorcycle officers, 6 accident investigators, 4 DUI officers, and 2 Detectives.
CITY OF RENO TRAFFIC STATISTICS: View the latest statistics compiled by RPD's Traffic Unit.
OFF-ROAD VEHICLES: View a map of the designated City of Reno portal locations. View the U.S. Forest Motor Vehicle Maps.
Total traffic fatalities for the first six months of this year in the City of Reno are down 58.3 percent and pedestrian fatalities are down 100 percent from the same period in 2007, according to Sergeant Wes Myers of the Reno Police Department’s Traffic Division.
Myers says traffic statistics for January 1 through July also reveal injury crashes are down 4.8 percent compared to the same period in 2007, although total reported crashes are up 7.2 percent. “DUI arrests for the same period are down slightly, with 833 reported this year compared to 857 during the same time frame in 2007,” Myers said. “However, DUI arrests are up an incredible 35.7 percent from the same period in 2006. The Reno Police Department’s ongoing commitment to enforcing DUI laws is reflected in an 11.2 percent decrease in alcohol related crashes this month compared to last year,” Myers points out. Beginning this week, DUI enforcement activities are being increased through the Labor Day weekend with the Reno Police Department joining other area law enforcement agencies in saturation patrols to detect and arrest those driving under the influence. The enforcement program is funded through a Joining Forces grant from the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety.
Several intersections are targeted for accident reduction traffic enforcement activities each month. Those targeted in July showed a complete reduction in accidents from accidents reported in the April-June period. There were no crashes reported in July at the intersections of Oddie and Silverada Boulevards where six citations were issued; Oddible Boulevard and Sutro Street where 14 citations were issued; Kietzke Lane and Mill Street, nine citations; Clearacre Lane and Selmi Drive, two citations; Kietzke Lane and Vassar Street, seven citations; and Harvard Way and East Plumb Lane where one citation was issued. Each of those intersections had 4-5 crashes reported during the April-June period.
Targeted intersections where the most citations were issued by Reno Police officers included 23 citations at Kietzke Lane and East Moana Lane; followed by 19 citations at Kietzke Lane and East Moana Lane; 18 citations at Moana Lane and South Virginia Street; 16 citations at South McCarran Boulevard and South Virginia Street; 14 at Oddie Boulevard and Sutro Street; 13 each at North McCarran Boulevard and Northtowne Lane and at East 6th Street and Sutro Street; and 10 citations issued at West 8th Street and North Virginia Street.
Those intersections with the highest number of reported accidents during the May-July period include Kietzke Lane and Plumb Lane with seven reported crashes; and six each at North McCarran Boulevard and Northtowne Lane, 8th Street and North Virginia Street, Robb Drive and Sharlands Avenue, and Moana Lane and South Virginia Street.
There were five crashes each reported South McCarran Boulevard and Neil Road, Longley Lane and South McCarran Boulevard, Gentry Way and South Virginia Street and 6th Street and North Center Street.
Below is a table comparing traffic fatalities in the year 2006 in Washoe County versus Clark County:
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT:
Once you have done all of the above, you are free to leave the scene. Within 24 hours of the accident, contact your insurance company.
If anyone has been injured in the accident, or if it turns out that there is over $750 damage to any one vehicle, you must submit an accident report to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles or to the police department. These forms can be obtained from the police officer at the scene, at any DMV office, or at a police station or substation. Click here: DMV Accident Report Form to bring up the PDF form to download and complete for the State of Nevada DMV.
If you have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, try to remember and quickly write down the make and color of the other vehicle, anything about the other vehicle's license plate, any characteristic of the other driver (sex, race, age, hair color, clothing, etc.), and any other details about the accident.
If you have had a Traffic Accident Report Form 5 completed, here is the State of Nevada Form 5 Code List (revised 1-14-04).
CHECKPOINT EVENTS
This is the Traffic Unit's checkpoint trailer, used during DUI/Seatbelt checkpoint events. This trailer is also used during emergencies and disaster situations when roads need to be closed, such as flooded roads, etc., and to help with crowd control during special events, for planned demonstrations, or when dignitaries visit Reno.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Special Events is another major part of the Traffic Unit's responsibilities. All special events approved by and taking place in the City of Reno must be reviewed and approved through the Reno Police Department's Special Events Unit.
Two photos are shown below of an exhibit trailer which is displayed at several Reno-area events. Funds were raised to bring this trailer, designed by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), to the Northern Nevada area to be used by all law enforcement agencies in the Northern Nevada area. RPD's Traffic Division coordinated the fund-raising to bring the trailer here; it has a static display used to educate drivers, especially high-school age students, on the ramifications of drunk driving.
DIVISION OF SERVICES
Under the direction of the Traffic Lieutenant, the Traffic Sergeants supervise the investigation of all traffic accidents and the Police Department's rotation of approved towing companies.
Twenty-six officers are assigned as motorcycle officers, responsible for enforcing traffic laws, identifying high accident locations within the City of Reno, and working proactively to reduce accidents and traffic fatalities. These officers must pass an intensive 80-hour motorcycle training course, as well as a 200-hour Field Training Program. Additionally, motor officers are an important part of the City's special events, due to their maneuverability in heavily congested areas. Many of our traffic officers have ancillary duties including firearms instruction, defensive tactics instruction, and SWAT Motorcycle Officers and Accident Investigators work both day and swing shifts.
Six Accident Investigators are assigned to investigate property, injury, and fatal traffic accidents, including hit-and-run accidents. They drive vehicles equipped with specialty equipment for the investigation of accidents.
Four DUI officers are assigned to patrol the City and enforce drunk-driving laws, primarily through enforcement. Although they work late evening to early morning shifts, they occasionally adjust their schedules as the need arises. DUI officers drive vehicles specifically equipped to assist in the detection and apprehension of those driving under the influence.
The Traffic Unit also has two Traffic Detectives. Their primary assignment is to investigate hit and run accidents and to serve as case managers for the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), which investigates are accidents involving a fatality and/or a major injury. Their special training and experience assist in the timely and thorough investigations of these accidents.
Eight Parking Violation Attendants (PVAs) enforce parking violations in the downtown area, in specially designated Neighborhood Parking zones, as well as handling enforcement of removal of abandoned vehicles. PVAs operate special propane-powered vehicles for use in the downtown area and in the designated Neighborhood parking zones. While PVAs primarily work mondays through saturdays, they also assist motor officers during special events.
TRAFFIC STOPS
Click below to download and print out brochures in either English or Spanish to assist you if you are stopped for any reason by a Law Enforcement Officer.
Crash Reduction Team
The Traffic Unit has a Crash Reduction Team, a group of eight motor officers dedicated to reducing traffic accidents and traffic fatalities within the City of Reno. Click here: CRT Brochure to see a PDF brochure which explains the Crash Reduction Team and contains some valuable information and statistics about traffic crashes.
Traffic-Related Citizen Complaints
Have you noticed that vehicles traveling through your neighborhood routinely exceed established speed limits? The City of Reno welcomes calls from citizens that pinpoint areas where posted speed limits are continually violated.
The City also welcomes calls concerning abandoned vehicles parked on a public street. A vehicle is considered to be abandoned if it has been parked in the same spot on the street for over 48 hours. When you call regarding an abandoned vehicle, have available the location of the vehicle, a vehicle description, and the vehicle license plate number, if there is a plate on the vehicle.For these traffic-related complaints, call RENO DIRECT at 334-INFO.
TRAFFIC SAFETY TIPS
Child Safety
Each year, more than 250,000 children in the U.S. are injured or die in crashes because of faulty or improperly used child safety seats. (Source: http://www.remsa-cf.com/poi.html)
The Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 484.474) requires that any child under the age of six and less than 60 lbs. be buckled up in an approved child safety seat.
Each month, REMSA hosts "Point of Impact," which is a child safety seat and inspection program. Go to the REMSA website for a schedule.
Pedestrian Safety
Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk in the road, always walk FACING traffic, so you can see any vehicle that is approaching and spot a vehicle that is being driven irratically or that might be out of control.
Dress to be seen. Brightly-colored clothing makes it easier for drivers to see you during the daytime.
At night, you need to wear special reflective material on your shoes, cap, or jacket to reflect off of the headlights of vehicles coming towards you.
Tips for Crossing Streets Safely
CROSSING STREETS WITH CHILDREN
Always hold a child's hand when crossing the street. If crossing with more than one child, be sure they also hold each other's hands. Children are unpredictable and may run ahead into the street or lag behind if you are not holding on to them.
Always cross at a crosswalk or an intersection, and use pedestrian signals when available. Children learn by what they see you do, not by what you say. If they see you crossing streets safely, they will learn to do the same. If you can't be bothered with crossing safely and using crosswalks, they will pick up your bad habits and ignore crosswalks just like you do.
Using Turn Signals
Automobile manufacturers equip vehicles with turn signals for two reasons: one, they are required to by law, and two, your fellow drivers are not psychic. If you don't let others know your intentions when you are driving, you create dangerous situations for yourself and for them. Also, turn signals should be activated at least 100 feet before a lane change or turn is initiated. If you turn on your signal as you make a turn, that's too late. Other drivers need to know beforehand of your intention to turn.
When turning from one roadway onto another, you must complete the turn into the nearest lane possible. Do not turn into a different lane from the one you left when you turned. If you need to end up in a different lane, put on your turn signal, and cross into another lane when you know it is safe to do so.
Obeying Traffic Signs
This is a speed limit sign.
It is just that: the speed limit, that is, the maximum allowed speed in that area.
Did you know that you can be issued a citation for going 26 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone?
This is a STOP sign.
It is just that: a sign that tells you to come to a full stop at that corner to check for traffic on the other streets. Did you know that you can be issued a citation if you just slow down and do not stop at a STOP sign?
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are one of the top three types of collisions in the City of Reno. They are usually caused by one vehicle following another vehicle too closely or by a second vehicle approaching a vehicle in front of it too quickly so that the second vehicle is unable to stop if the first vehicle has to suddenly slow down or stop.
Drivers often follow other cars too closely because they are in a hurry or because they misjudge their ability to react or stop their car if they suddenly need to.
Another reason for rear-end collisions is driver inattention. Distractions such as radios, CD players, eating, other passengers, and particularly cellphones lead to rear-enders. It is advisable to pull over if a driver wishes to eat or to chat on a cellphone.
Did you know that even if you equip your car with a headphone device to allow hands-free cellphone use, you are still more likely to have an accident. Why? Because you are still being distracted by the phone conversation. Instead of paying attention to your driving you are discussing the stock market or finding out what a family member wants for dinner. This is still a major driving distraction.
Some drivers always follow other cars too closely. For them, tailgating is just a bad, and a dangerous, habit. Did you know that habitual tailgaters have to get their brakes fixed twice as often as other drivers? Since they feel compelled to remain right behind the car in front of them no matter what the circumstances, they must continually apply their brakes to keep from hitting the car in front. If they would just ease up and leave four or five feet of room in front, they generally would not have to apply their brakes much at all while their car is in motion!! Brake Repair Shops love tailgaters--they help keep their shops in business!
Tailgating is also costly. The fine for Following Too Closely is $170 in Reno. The fine for Duty to Decrease Speed is $115. Add to this the cost of having an accident and having to pay a deductible for car repair and then having your auto insurance company raise your rates because you rear-ended someone.
MALFUNCTIONING TRAFFIC SIGNALS
Do you know what the traffic rules are if you reach an intersection where the traffic signals are not working? Due to power failures, servicing, and other causes, especially during inclement weather, traffic signals sometimes lose power. Sometimes they are totally dark; sometimes they will just flash red in all directions. When this happens, the intersection must be treated as if it is a four-way stop and as if there are STOP signs at each street leading to the intersection.
At a four-way stop, all vehicles stop, and then proceed in turn based on who arrived at the intersection first. If two or more cars all seem to have arrived at the same moment, the car on the right goes first. At a major intersection, vehicle traffic should alternate as much as possible, so that traffic in all four roads, even if two of the roads are smaller, get an equal chance to get through the intersection. Above all, proceed through the intersection slowly, just in case another driver is not as cognizant of the rules as you are.
WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Summer is over. The leaves have fallen, and winter weather is on its way. Winter in Reno is beautiful to look at, but it can be treacherous to drive in. Winter driving requires special preparation and special skills. The following driving tips can help you to get safely to your destination.
Prepare Your Vehicle, and Yourself, for Winter Driving
Snow Tires and Chains - All-season tires on a vehicle are a compromise and will not perform as well as snow tires in winter conditions. To maximize safety and control, use the best snow tires available. If you must travel in mountain areas, carry chains and know how to install them and safely remove them.
Fall Tune-Up - Before winter gets here, prepare by getting a complete check-up of your vehicle. Have the following items checked:
Cold-Weather Gear - It is wise to carry some personal cold-weather gear in your vehicle in winter. Throw some old boots, warm sox, scarves, heavy gloves, a ski hat, and an extra heavy jacket in the trunk just in case. You may leave your driveway on a winter day with the sun shining brightly, so you have decided to just throw on a light jacket. The Sierras can create inclement weather without notice in the Reno area. If you do get stuck someplace, or even if you have a minor accident but still must leave your vehicle and perhaps walk for a while, those heavy old winter duds will come in handy.
Before You Leave Your Driveway
Warm up your vehicle. A warm engine responds better than a cold, sluggish engine. But, do not leave your car unattended when you warm it up. Not only is this illegal, but it increases the chance of your car being stolen. Did you know that stolen vehicle reports increase as the weather gets colder? Why wouldn't they? Not only have you conveniently left your vehicle with the key in the ignition for a thief, you have also warmed the car up so the thief won't get cold when he or she jumps in and drives away -- how accommodating you are!
It's hard to believe that someone thinks they can drive safely having cleared this much space from their window, but officers see people driving like this quite often in the wintertime.
This is not only illegal, it's not too bright. Get up ten minutes early if you have to in order to have time to clean off your vehicle before you leave.
Adjust Your Speed for Winter Driving Conditions
When driving in challenging conditions (rain, snow, ice) slow down. Slower speeds allows more time to respond to emergencies. To determine a safe speed for your vehicle, consider the vehicle type, the quality and tread wear on your tires, your driving ability, and alertness.
Use traction effectively when roads are slippery. Brake only when you are traveling in a straight line. Taking your foot off the brake before you steer into a curve allows you to use all of your available traction for steering.
Don't accelerate again until you begin to straighten the steering wheel when you have completed the turn.
This technique will keep your vehicle straight and level for a longer period of time and will help you to drive more effectively on winter roads.
Don't be overconfident. Driving conservatively or cautiously is the best way to avoid an accident, in winter or in summer. Remember that even though four-wheel drive vehicles provide better traction, their braking characteristics in ice and snow are the same as they are on any vehicle; four-wheel drive vehicles can lose traction and slide just the same as any other vehicle.
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