3 min read time
Summary
Cops zigzag on the freeways to create traffic breaks, which help slow traffic during a dangerous situation.
Table of Contents
Why Do Cops Zigzag on Highways?
When highway patrol officers, commonly from the California Highway Patrol, zigzag across highway lanes, they do so to create a traffic break or rolling roadblock for traffic safety and management, such as when they have to clear traffic from a lane due to construction.
Common reasons why they zigzag to create traffic breaks are outlined below.
Clearing Potential Hazards on the Road
Commonly, officers perform zigzag movements on the roads to slow down or stop traffic while emergency responders or work crews clear traffic disruptions, such as disabled vehicles, debris, or other dangerous obstructions that could result in a car accident if not removed.
Slowing Down Traffic During Emergencies
In emergency or dangerous situations such as a motor vehicle accident or police chase, a police officer may zigzag across road lanes and slow the traffic flow so responders can tend to the scene without the risk of high-speed vehicles driving by.
Preventing Chain Reaction Accidents
If a motor vehicle accident occurs on the road and is considered a potential threat to other drivers, police officers may create traffic breaks in order to avoid multi-vehicle pile-ups.
Making Space for Road Crews
A police car may zigzag on the freeway to provide space and increased safety for construction crews, especially those working on or near the roads.
Deploying rolling roadblocks instead of closing lanes for construction can be extremely useful in high-traffic areas where shutting a lane down could pose a road hazard.
Breaking Up Traffic Congestion
If traffic is highly congested, a police officer can use a traffic break to temporarily create a gap, alleviate potential bottlenecks, and restore a smoother flow of traffic.
Assisting in Transporting VIPs
During a special event, such as a political rally, a patrol vehicle may zigzag across the highway to create a clear and secure route for the convoy vehicles.
This will ensure the safety of the VIP while avoiding shutting down traffic lanes.
What Is a Traffic Break
A traffic break is a maneuver used by law enforcement or authorized parties to slow or stop traffic temporarily.
This maneuver is typically done on highways with police cars or large trucks, depending on the situation's circumstances, and is meant to ensure road safety by preventing accidents, helping clear hazards, and managing congestion.
What Should You Do in a Traffic Break?
When you encounter a traffic break, it's important to understand what to do in order to avoid potential consequences, such as a traffic ticket or car accident.
#1 Gradually Reduce Your Speed
Once you spot a police vehicle zigzagging with its emergency lights on, you must immediately reduce your driving speed.
However, avoid abruptly breaking to avoid causing a rear-end car accident.
#2 Do Not Attempt to Pass the Zigzagging Vehicle
While the traffic enforcement vehicle is zigzagging, you must remain behind it.
If you attempt to pass or move around the vehicle, you may endanger yourself and others.
#3 Stay in Your Lane
While the officer is performing the traffic break, stay in your lane and only make lane changes if the officer driving directs you to do so.
#4 Maintain a Safe Following Distance
During a rolling roadblock, you must maintain a larger-than-normal following distance with the vehicle in front of you, as vehicles could abruptly stop.
#5 Proceed with Caution When Returning to Regular Speeds
Once the traffic break ends, don't rush to return to normal speeds, as hazards such as slow-moving vehicles or debris may still be present.
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