TEXAS, USA — TxDOT partnered with Texas law enforcement this week to promote their "Operation Slowdown" anti-speeding campaign.
Beginning July 19, TxDOT adopted the campaign to bring awareness to the rising number of speed-related crashes and deaths in Texas. According to TxDOT, speed was a factor in more than 160,000 traffic crashes in Texas last year, and 1,456 people were killed in speed-related crashes.
“Speeding is one of the deadliest problems on our roads,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Getting to the office, home or wherever you’re going a few minutes faster isn’t worth putting your life or the lives of others at risk.”
TxDOT released the following tips to keep drivers and pedestrians safe while on the road and avoid a ticket:
- Match your speed to road conditions, such as bad weather or driving through a work zone.
- Slow down and allow for more distance to stop when traffic is heavy or roads are slick
- Watch for road signs alerting you of reduced speed limits ahead.
Additionally, TxDOT said they actively monitor roadways throughout the state to identify patterns that may help implement additional safety measures to prevent speeding.
Law enforcement officers will also be stepping up their efforts to encourage drivers to slow down, or pay the price. TxDOT said this is part of the “The Be Safe. Drive Smart" campaign, which coincides with Operation Slowdown, and is a statewide speed limit enforcement period from July 19 to Aug. 4.
During this period, TxDOT announced “Be Safe. Drive Smart" messages will be broadcast this month on TV, radio, billboards, gas pumps, theater screens and social media. They will also hosting community events featuring an interactive exhibit of safety quizzes and video displays at select Buc-ee’s locations along major travel corridors, the organization said. Be Safe. Drive Smart. is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths.