Roadway speed enforcement “Operation Southern Slow Down,” July 17

Tallahassee, Florida - Law enforcement agencies within Florida and four other southeastern states, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, will conduct a weeklong speed enforcement campaign during July 17 - 22, 2023, a joint effort with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

“The Florida Highway Patrol will be working with our many dedicated law enforcement partners toward providing highway safety,” said Colonel Gary L. Howze, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). HP Troopers will be on patrol monitoring traffic for hazardous drivers and enforcing traffic laws along Florida’s state highways in support of Operations Southern Slowdown.”

Preliminary data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) shows that in 2022, more than 13,296 crashes in Florida involved speeding or driving too fast for conditions. Speeding contributed to 10.5 % of all crash fatalities statewide, resulting in more than 368 fatalities.

"When motorists make the decision to engage in dangerous speeds on our roadways, they needlessly place themselves and other road users at risk of deadly outcomes,” said Will N. Watts, Jr., P.E., Florida Department of Transportstion (FDOT) Assistant Secretary for Engineering and Operations, and the Florida Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety. “FDOT remains committed to achieving its target of zero fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways, and we are proud to join transportation and law enforcement partners across the state - and our neighboring southern states - in the Operation Southern Slow Down effort. Together, we can help get everyone home safely.”

As you travel, here are some tips to stay safe on Florida’s roadways this summer:
• Anticipate increased traffic during peak travel periods. Plan ahead and give yourself ample drive time.
• Buckle up, and make sure all passengers are buckled up the entire trip.
• Slow down in construction zones. Keep in mind that construction increases during the summer season.
• No matter how eager you are to reach your destination, speeding and driving aggressively is dangerous. Stay patient and give other road users plenty of space.
• If you observe aggressive driving, do not engage with the other driver. Dial *FHP (*347) or 911 for local law enforcement.