Traffic Unit

The Traffic Unit works closely with other City departments and community agencies to resolve traffic issues at the neighborhood level and to reduce the number of automobile, bicycle, pedestrian collisions, and incidents of drinking and driving. Traffic Officers accomplish this goal by using:

• A combination of enforcement, education, and awareness programs
• Focused Enforcement Patrols
• Traffic Safety Presentations
• Bicycle Rodeos
• Radar Trailer Deployment
• Parking Enforcement
• Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Program

The Traffic Unit is managed by the Operations Commander and is comprised of two Motorcycle Traffic Officers, who are currently using BMW motorcycles.  The Motor Officers must pass an intensive 80-hour Police Motorcycle Officer School in addition to Traffic Collision Investigation Schools and Radar/Lidar Operator Schools.

Our Traffic Officers investigate traffic collisions, patrol for traffic violators, issue traffic citations and warnings for traffic violations, and address other concerns such as traffic congestion and various hazards. In addition to all these duties, Traffic Officers also supplement the regular patrol teams by responding to calls for service when the need arises.

Speed, one of the leading causes of collisions, is enforced through the use of laser and radar devices. Each Motor Officer is equipped with both devices. The Traffic Bureau also utilizes display trailers in order to combat speeding. Mobile speed display radar trailers are rotated throughout the city to inform motorists of their speeds and serve as educational tools. It is the goal of the Lathrop Police Department to have the City of Lathrop be one of the safest cities in which to drive. If you have a complaint about traffic or parking on your street, feel free to contact us via the phone or send us an e-mail. Please be as specific as you can about your complaints so the Traffic Officers can be effective with their directed enforcement.