Pamela, U.S. police pull over more than 20 million drivers each year, making traffic stops the most common police-civilian interaction.
As research by Vera and others has shown, many of these stops are for minor infractions that do not impact road safety—like an expired registration, a single broken taillight, or an air freshener dangling from a rearview mirror.
Not only are these stops ineffective, they can be harmful and even deadly—especially for Black drivers, who research shows are stopped at higher rates than all other drivers.
The good news is that cities across the country are taking action to refocus police on dangerous driving instead of minor infractions.
Vera is helping communities across the country build momentum for this change. Find out what we've learned.
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This July marks another year since the death of Philando Castile, who was killed following a non-safety-related traffic stop by police.
As we remember his life and the loss felt among his loved ones and community, we reflect on the fact that Black people and other people of color continue to be disproportionately harmed by these kinds of traffic stops. Pamela, too many people have been harmed or killed due to unjust traffic enforcement and policing.
Vera's Sensible Traffic Ordinances for Public Safety (STOPS) program helps lawmakers, local government leaders, and advocates address these problems by refocusing police on speeding, distracted driving, and other dangerous behavior instead of minor infractions that do not affect road or public safety.
It's important to have the facts. Click now to learn three reasons why it's essential to limit non-safety-related traffic stops. |
Thank you for your continued support in making our communities safer and more just. In solidarity, Daniela — |
Daniela Gilbert Director, Redefining Public Safety
Vera Institute of Justice |
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