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Florida drivers need to watch their speed this week.
Starting Monday, July 14, the state is launching its annual “Operation Southern Slow Down,” meaning an increased law enforcement presence is hitting the streets this week.
The Florida Department of Transportation, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and local law enforcement agencies around the state are "targeting driver behavior through heightened enforcement efforts and public safety messaging," according to an FDOT news release.
And the vigilance doesn't end once you cross state lines.
The Florida agencies are working in conjunction with their counterpart transportation and law enforcement organizations in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
“Operation Southern Slow Down is a united effort to reduce dangerous driving behaviors that contribute to serious crashes on our roadways,” Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze II said in a statement. “Through increased enforcement and proactive education, FHP and our partners are working across state lines to save lives and move closer to our shared vision of zero traffic deaths.”
The enforcement mobilization to increase driving safety will run from July 14 through July 19. FLHSMV data found that speeding and aggressive driving behaviors in particular contributed to 437 fatalities, or 13%, of all traffic fatalities in Florida in 2023.
To draw attention to the operation, the Tallahassee Police Department highlighted the arrest of two people involved in an alleged street racing incident. The two drivers caused a "serious crash" May 14 in the 2100 block of West Tennessee Street, a main thoroughfare through the capital city.
TPD found that the duo was participating in an illegal street race with another vehicle, beginning near Appleyard Drive, according to a TPD news release.
"Both drivers reached speeds exceeding twice the posted speed limit before the crash occurred," TPD said.
Demetrial Thurman, 28, was arrested on a charge of racing on highways and driving without a license. Tykeria Thurman, 23, was arrested on a charge of racing on highways.
TPD is also joining the statewide effort to crackdown on speeding and other unsafe driving behaviors.
FDOT safety tips
To encourage "responsible behaviors" on the road, here are some of FDOT's safety reminders:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other impairing substances.
- Buckle up for every trip and ensure all passengers wear safety belts.
- Remain alert and always drive with caution – put away all distractions, like cell phones, every time you get behind the wheel.
- Practice patience and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Plan your route in advance on FL511.com and allow extra time for traffic during peak travel times.
- Allow more stopping time if driving a larger vehicle, especially on wet pavement.
- Remember to reduce speed in construction zones to enhance road safety.
- If you witness aggressive driving, contact local law enforcement by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.