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Published on Thursday, February 26, 2004
in the Gainesville Sun
Today and Friday, every Florida Highway Patrol trooper will be out patrolling the state's highways specifically looking for aggressive drivers and incidents of road rage.
Lt. Mike Burroughs said that in an effort to combat bad driving before it starts, FHP is taking part in “Operation Safe Ride.”
“We're looking for people speeding, tailgating, changing lanes or other drivers who obviously are endangering other motorists on the roadway, as well as looking for road rage,” Burroughs said.
Burroughs said Col. Christopher Knight, the director of FHP, has ordered all troopers, as well as administrative staff, to vacate their normal duties to focus only on patrolling the interstates today and Friday in hope that drivers will get the message about aggressive driving.
“We know that we've got to send a strong message that we are not going to tolerate aggressive driving and road rage in the state of Florida,” Burroughs said.
While everyone is out patrolling, FHP's Auxiliary Force, which is composed of sworn officers who work on a volunteer basis, will take care of all calls for roadside assistance.
In addition to every trooper being on the road, Burroughs said the FHP will use all 10 aircraft and other special equipment as part of the operation.