| Law enforcement officials are frequently the first people to arrive at a crash scene. Therefore, police officers are constantly dealing with the aftermath of car accidents that all-to-often result in bodily injuries or even death. Tragically, many of these crashes involve our most vulnerable drivers, teens.
Virginia traffic laws are examples of "social contracts." These contracts are the laws that bind our society together and provide the protection and security for Virginia citizens. These laws are written by democratically elected Virginia citizens.
Enforcement of these contracts or laws is the responsibility of the executive branch of the Virginia state government. State and local law enforcement agencies and departments are given the responsibility to enforce the traffic laws of Virginia.
As with any law, there will be individuals that view these laws as an infringement to their liberties. Teens often see members of the law enforcement agencies as authority figures. Crucial to the understanding and participation of teens in our society is their understanding that traffic laws are fundamental for the protection and safety of all citizens and that these laws are the result of a democratic process.
Helpful Links:
Bureau of Field Operations
The Bureau of Field Operations has as its primary responsibility the patrolling of over 64,000 miles of state roadways and interstate highways throughout Virginia. Personnel provide both traffic enforcement and criminal law enforcement. The Bureau also is responsible for managing the Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Program, the enforcement of motor carrier and commercial vehicle safety regulations, the Executive Protective Unit and the Department's Aviation Unit.
http://www.vsp.state.va.us/BFO.shtm
Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP)
State membership organization advocating professionalism in police administration, contact details and information.
http://www.vachiefs.org
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
The Department of Criminal Justice Services provides planning, technical and support services for the criminal justice system to promote and enhance public safety in the Commonwealth.
http://www.dcjs.state.va.us
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The DMV Web site has a comprehensive review of traffic safety information and links to other traffic safety sites.
http://www.dmvnow.com
Virginia Sheriffs' Association (VSA)
This Web site has a listing of all Virginia sheriff's offices and links to other agencies.
http://www.virginiasheriffs.org
Virginia State Police (VSP)
The State Police Web site has information on vehicle safety, state laws, criminal investigations and more.
http://www.vsp.state.va.us
Virginia's Judicial System
Virginia Codes, Rules, and Statutes.
http://www.courts.state.va.us/
Virginia Association for Driver Education and Traffic Safety (V.A.D.E.T.S.)
This Web site is the statewide association for the improvement of driver education and traffic safety.
http://adtsea.iup.edu/vadets
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