Too many law enforcement officers die as a result of automobile crashes. More than 700 officers lost their lives from 2000 to 2009 because of an automobile or motorcycle crash or from being struck and killed while outside of their patrol vehicles. In 2010, there was a significant increase in the number of officers who died in the line of duty (LOD) because of traffic-related causes.

The IACP recognizes this issue. IACP President Mark A. Marshall sent a message to the more than 21,000 members of the IACP in response to the increase in LOD deaths in 2010, commenting, “This is simply unacceptable. As police leaders, we can and must do all that we can to reduce these horrific numbers.” President Marshall challenged law enforcement leaders to find ways “to give our officers the best chance of survival while they protect our communities.”