Traffic Unit

The Traffic Unit specializes in the investigation of automobile accidents, monitoring traffic and enforcing traffic laws in order to enhance road safety and improve the quality of life in the city of Guelph. The Unit is staffed by 2 sergeants and 14 constables. In accordance with organizational priorities, the Traffic Unit has increasingly taken a problem-oriented approach to traffic issues. Resources are dedicated to targeted enforcement of problem locations as identified by citizens and neighbourhood groups, as well as to education and awareness related to traffic safety and rules of the road.

Enforcement tools and methods available to traffic officers include radar equipment for monitoring speed from police vehicles, the Speed Sign available for use in neighbourhoods throughout the city, and regular implementation of traffic safety and enforcement campaigns including "Lead the way - do 50k", back-to-school enforcement blitzes, RIDE (reduce impaired driving everywhere), Operation Impact, and seatbelt and commercial vehicle safety blitzes.

With the increasing popularity of bicycles as an environmentally friendly and economical mode of transportation, the Traffic Unit has focused their attention on reducing the number of pedestrian-cyclist collisions throughout the city. A three-pronged approach based on the enforcement of bicycle regulations, public education, and strategy formulation with the Guelph Transportation Safety Advisory Committee has been highly successful and was adopted as an operational strategy by all five frontline platoons.

The Traffic Unit has certified accident reconstruction specialists with highly developed skills for assessing the complex factors involved in collisions leading to serious injury or death. Accident reconstruction reports are also provided for a fee to the insurance industry, generating an additional source of revenue to offset policing costs.