Speeding Crackdowns This Summer Aim To Reduce Fatal Crashes

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety wants you to take steps to keep cruisers safe this summer.

You may be commuting to work or rushing hundreds of miles to your destination, but for many, the warm weather is a time to slow down and just enjoy the drive. With such different objectives among drivers, this can create danger.

Officials say that you should remain alert to your surroundings and obey the rules of the road, especially when you are not on an expressway. They contend that many speeding-related deaths occur on streets with intersections and slower limits. Nationwide, 87% of all fatalities are on non-interstate roads.

Agencies across the state are stepping up with speed enforcement crackdowns that will roll through the summer until Labor Day, September 2nd. OTS Director Mike Hanson says, “We’ve all been there while driving. You’re running late to an activity, or stressed about a work project, or annoyed at the seemingly clueless driver ahead of you.” He implores you to, “Take a breath and don’t take out life’s frustrations on the road through speeding and aggressive driving. Traffic deaths are well ahead of last year at this time. We have to work together to stay safe as we look forward to Memorial Day and summertime fun.”

Experts say watching your speed gives you more control over your vehicle, especially when weather or construction lead to changing conditions. It will also reduce the force of impact if you do crash. The other tip they give is to keep room between you and the vehicle in front of you. That allows you to react in time. It takes over 300 feet, or a full-length football field, to stop when you are traveling at 60 miles per hour.

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