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Published on Tuesday, December 23, 2003
in the Miami Herald

FHP gets 3 new cars to nab aggressive drivers

The Florida Highway Patrol announced Monday that early next month troopers assigned to Broward County will be using three new, unmarked 2004 Mercury Marauders that the agency says will help stem aggressive driving.

The new stealth patrol vehicles -- similar in design to the Ford Crown Victorias already in use -- are being outfitted with radios, computers, radar and video cameras.

FHP will place a special enforcement effort on speeding, tailgating, driving or passing on the shoulder, making unsafe lane changes and displaying other aggressive behavior or habits, according to Lt. Bill Ferrell.

Some safety agencies say aggressive drivers may account for as many as two-thirds of the nation's 42,000 annual traffic deaths.

As aggressive driving increased over the years, budget cuts resulted in FHP cutting back on staff -- by one-third in Broward County in the past 14 years.

Ferrell said FHP has noticed the increase in the problem as Broward roads have become more congested, but he noted that it's no excuse for violating the law or disregarding the safety of others.