OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Speed kills, literally.

But what’s being done to help motorists understand the dangers associated with speeding?

The 8th annual Operation Southern Slow Down is a collaborative initiative between the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles with the broader campaign including five southern states, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Motorists should expect to see a greater law enforcement presence on the roads from July 14th through July 20th, with the intention being to increase awareness and promote safer roadways.

This next week will find law enforcement targeting aggressive drivers on the interstate and major thoroughfares. Speeding has consequences that not only impact the speeding driver but also others that share the roadway, including other motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians, oftentimes resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities.

“Florida’s transportation system is meticulously engineered to maximize safety – it’s woven into every design plan, every education campaign, and every traffic safety law enforced by our law enforcement partners. Operation Southern Slow Down is a strong example of how each of these facets works together to create safer roadways,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “We encourage communities to join our efforts in creating a safer transportation future by recognizing the risks of unsafe driving behaviors, like speeding.”

Speeding increases the risk of a driver being in a crash, severely inhibiting a motorist’s ability to stop suddenly in an emergency situation. According to FLHSMV data, speeding and aggression contributed to 437 fatalities or 13% of all traffic fatalities in Florida in 2023.

“Operation Southern Slow Down is a united effort to reduce dangerous driving behaviors that contribute to serious crashes on our roadways,” said Florida Highway Patrol Col. Gary Howze II. “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.”

During the 2024 campaign, state and local law enforcement officers found themselves extremely busy, issuing more than 62,00 citations and warnings in the five states, of which nearly 50,000 were issued for speeding violations.

To encourage responsible behaviors on Florida’s roadways, here are some 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.