Road Patrol
There are 678 square miles in Presque Isle County, with 52 miles spanning the county from end to end. Nine of the thirteen sworn officers employed at Presque Isle Sheriff Department are assigned to road patrol - enforcing traffic safety laws in addition to the other responsibilities they have. The main reason deputies conduct traffic stops is to enforce the law and to encourage voluntary compliance with these laws. The goal is to reduce injuries and deaths on our roadways. People often perceive traffic enforcement efforts negatively and fail to see the positive benefit to having traffic laws enforced.

Traffic enforcement encompasses more than "just writing speeding tickets" - speeding is one of the most common offenses committed by the aggressive driver and the main factor in 21 % of fatal crashes. Traffic law enforcers remove impaired drivers from the road, enforce occupant protection laws, and identify criminals which results in their apprehension. "Routine" traffic stops frequently lead to finding drugs, weapons and contraband in vehicles.

When you see a car pulled over, remember that the law enforcement officer may be doing more than writing a ticket. The officer may be apprehending a felon, child molester or removing weapons and drugs from your community, officers are trained to place emphasis on their safety and take a defensive postures on traffic stops until the risk of confrontation is diminished.

When you are stopped by a police officer the following guidelines may assure a cooperative encounter with law enforcement:

• Carry proper identification: a valid drivers license, proof of vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
• When being signaled by a deputy to stop, look for the nearest place to position your vehicle, as far out of the lane of traffic as possible. Generally, pull off to the right side of the roadway or to where the shoulder is wider, unless otherwise directed. Signal your move to the side of the roadway, stop, then turn on your flashers.
• Never attempt to outrun the patrol vehicle or pretend not to see the lights or hear the siren.
• Stay in your vehicle. If you are asked to exit the vehicle, do it slowly.
• Remain calm. If there are passengers, also ask them to remain quiet and to be cooperative.
• Keep you seat belt fastened until the deputy has seen you wearing it.
• Avoid thinking that this stop was based on race, gender, religion or on national origin. Wait for the officer's explanation.
• Turn on the interior lights when the stop occurs during darkness so the deputy can easily see that all is in order.
• Understand that the deputy will turn on the patrol car's headlights and spotlights during darkness for safety purposes. It helps illuminate your car's interior.
• Keep your hands in view, do not make sudden movements.

Traffic enforcement can and does contribute to the quality of life in your community - making our roads and neighborhoods safer for everyone.