The influence of department policy and accountability on officer-involved collisions

Abstract

Purpose – Little is known regarding the impact of organizational policies and practices on police officers’ driving behaviors. To address an important gap in the empirical literature, this study examined how perceived likelihood of discipline for violations of agency driving policies impacted officer-involved vehicle collisions. Design/methodology/approach – Surveys were distributed to patrol officers and their supervisors in eight California law enforcement agencies. The surveys elicited information regarding the perceived likelihood of discipline for violations of agency driving policies regarding cell phone use, text messaging, seatbelt use, speeding, and vehicle operations during emergency and pursuit situations. Findings – The findings demonstrated a significant impact of perceived likelihood of enforcement for some but not all agency driving policies on officer-involved vehicle collisions. Research limitations/implications – This study was limited to self-reported data from patrol officers and their supervisors in eight California agencies. Practical implications – Findings suggest that agencies may reduce officer injuries and other costs by increasing supervision and enforcement of agency driving policies. Originality/value – This study contributes to the extant body of literature on officer-involved vehicle collisions by considering the impact of agency policy and supervision on officer behavior.