MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

True or False: Officers can write a misdemeanor ticket or civil infraction at a traffic crash with reasonable cause and personal investigation.

1. True

2. False

3. Only if they are the first responder

4. Only for non-injury accidents

The correct answer is: True

The statement is true because law enforcement officers have the discretion to issue a misdemeanor ticket or a civil infraction at the scene of a traffic crash, provided they have reasonable cause and have conducted a personal investigation. The authority to do so is grounded in the officer's responsibility to enforce laws related to traffic violations and ensure public safety. When officers arrive at a crash scene, they typically assess the situation, gather evidence, and question involved parties and witnesses. Based on this investigation, if they find sufficient grounds to believe that a traffic law has been violated, they can issue a ticket. This application of law is essential for maintaining order and accountability on the roads, irrespective of whether they were the first responders or if the accident resulted in injuries. Understanding the context around officer discretionary powers is crucial, especially when it comes to traffic enforcement, as it emphasizes the importance of their training and the legal framework guiding their actions in various situations, including traffic crashes.