NC Police Intensify October Speeding Crackdown: Stay Safe at Events

On Oct 9, 2023

TL/DR –

As part of the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program, law enforcement in North Carolina is targeting speeders in “Operation Crash Reduction,” running from October 9 through October 15. The N.C. Department of Transportation says October is the deadliest month for vehicle crashes, with an average of 148 fatalities each October from 2017-2021. The campaign is also part of a larger effort led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to target speed, distraction, and impairment in several states and Washington D.C., due to the high number of traffic fatalities in these areas during early fall.

North Carolina Implements “Operation Crash Reduction” to Target Speeding Drivers

North Carolina’s Governor’s Highway Safety Program has launched “Operation Crash Reduction” to combat speeding on the state’s roads. The weeklong campaign encourages motorists to obey speed limits, given that speeding is related to an average of 148 fatalities every October, making it the deadliest month for vehicle accidents in the state.

What to Expect During the Campaign

Motorists across North Carolina can anticipate increased law enforcement efforts to curb speeding, including radar operations and speed display signs on roads and highways. The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program’s director, Mark Ezzell, stressed the importance of obeying roadway signs and urged drivers to make choices behind the wheel that protect lives.

Reasoning Behind the Campaign

October sees a rise in traffic due to seasonal activities, including football games, festivals, and the NC State Fair. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is partnering with North Carolina, and other states prone to high crash fatalities in early fall, to address speed, distraction, and impairment issues. NHTSA’s acting administrator, Ann Carlson, reminded drivers that speed limits are laws, not suggestions.

The NHTSA reported that speeding contributed to 29% of the 12,330 nationwide motor vehicle fatalities in 2021.