AUSTIN – Ninety-seven percent of people surveyed after watching training on traffic stop behavior found that the training clearly described the roles and duties of both parties in a traffic stop.
The training, called “Flashing Lights,” is a 16-minute combined video and PowerPoint presentation that provides specific instruction on traffic stop behavior by motorists and law enforcement officers in Texas.
The training is required by the Community Safety Education Act, co-authored by State Senator Royce West and State Senator John Whitmire and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. One of the goals of the law is to lessen tensions and anxieties that may arise during interactions between officers and citizens that could lead to undesired outcomes.
“Given that the objective of the Community Safety Education Act was to provide instructions to citizens on how they should react during an encounter with law enforcement, we are pleased that the information provided in SB 30 seems to be taking hold,” said Senator West. “Just as important is the consistency in the training that new and veteran officers are receiving that covers the same information that the driving public and future drivers are being taught. SB 30’s goal is for citizens and officers alike to make it home safely. Our thanks to everyone who has been a part of this effort that is now being replicated across the country.”
All public high school students are required to receive traffic stop instruction before graduation, as well as anyone taking a Texas driver education or driving safety course. All Texas peace officers also must view the training.
“I am pleased to see the success of this law enforcement interaction training program. Educating the public about their rights when interacting with law enforcement is critical to ensure the safety of both citizens and law enforcement,” said Senator Whitmire. “It is clear this program makes our citizens, our communities, and members of law enforcement safer.”
The survey was conducted by The University of Texas at Austin’s Institute for Organizational Excellence from Dec. 16, 2018 through Feb. 28, 2019. People who viewed the video and PowerPoint were invited to participate in the survey.
Other survey findings:
- 97 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the training easily demonstrated the actions they should take if they are pulled over by law enforcement.
- 91 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that they know their personal rights concerning interactions with law enforcement.
- 93 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the video explained the laws regarding questioning, detaining, failing to provide identification and the potential consequences.
- 86 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the training showed them how to file a complaint or compliment regarding a police officer’s behavior.
- 96 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the “Flashing Lights” video provided useful information on how to act if pulled over.
