S.D. Patrol Cars to Get Black-and-White Look

In an attempt to make police vehicles more easily identifiable to the public, the San Diego Police Department announced Friday the introduction of traditional black-and-white patrol cars beginning in April.

The changeover is expected to take three years after 129 of the prototype cars hit the streets in the spring, Deputy Chief Mike Rice said.

The change was ordered because police believe the more distinctive black-and-white vehicles could help reduce crime and accident rates, he said. Officers have complained that the glare from their white vehicles was blinding at times and created a potential traffic hazard, Rice said.