Transportation Safety

The Special Operations Section

Ensuring the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists and maintaining the safe and orderly flow of traffic is the primary mission of the Police Department’s Special Operations Section. As part of the Department’s traffic safety program, the Special Operation Section works with other County agencies and community members to address areas of concern. Resources are deployed based on the following priorities: Accident Reduction, School Zone Safety, Bike/Pedestrian Safety and other areas of concern as identified by citizens.

In order to fulfill our mission, the Special Operations Section shall:

• Conduct selective enforcement in problem areas
• Respond in a timely and effective manner to community complaints and concerns
• Participate in local and regional traffic safety programs
• Collaborate with public and private entities to efficiently and effectively address transportation safety concerns

Meet the Special Operations Section Supervisors

Captain D. Washington Email Capt. Washington	Lieutenant A. Bercovicz Email Lt. Bercovicz

Lieutenant K. Kernicky Email Lt. Kernicky	Lieutenant M. Owens Email Lt. Owens

Monthly Transportation Safety Highlight: Fall back safely during this year’s Street Smart Campaign

The arrival of fall brings cooler temperatures and less daylight during commuting hours. Everyone wants you to arrive at your destination safely, that’s why ACPD and law enforcement agencies throughout the region are participating in the Metropolitain Washington Council of Government’s Fall Street Smart campaign. This campaign aims to identify and change unsafe behavior patterns amongst motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists, with the goal of reducing the number of traffic related collisions and injuries on our roadways.  

Whether you travel by foot, two wheels or four wheels, make our roadways safer by being a PAL – predictable, alert and lawful.  

Drivers are reminded to: 

• Slow down, drive the speed limit and obey all posted traffic signs and signals. 

• Remain alert for pedestrians and bicyclists. 

• Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. 

• Avoid using your cell phone and never text while driving.  

Pedestrians are reminded to: 

• Cross the street at the corner and use marked crosswalks when they are available.  

• Use the pushbuttons when they’re available and wait for the walk signal to cross the street. 

• Look both ways before crossing. 

• Remain visible, especially after dark. 

Shared Mobility Device operators and bicyclists are reminded to: 

• Ride in the same direction as traffic, using bike lanes when possible. 

• Communicate your intentions by using hand signals. 

• Wear a helmet, which is required for all bicycle riders 14 years of age or younger and recommended for all other riders. (Arlington County Code 14.2-64). 

• Use headlights and taillights, especially when riding between sunset and sunrise.