Published on Friday, November 25, 2005
in the Orlando Sentinel

Troopers to target holiday speeders

Thanksgiving weekend has traditionally been the deadliest holiday on Florida's roads.

Fifty-five people were killed statewide in crashes during the 2004 Thanksgiving weekend, more than twice as many people who died during the New Year's holiday the same year.

Because of such high numbers, the Florida Highway Patrol this week beefed up its patrols and will continue to do so through the weekend.

The agency, which has jurisdiction on state roads, on Tuesday launched a new phase of its Operation Safe Ride enforcement campaign to target speeders.

"There's an erroneous belief that it's OK to drive 10 to 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. We want to make clear that this belief is not only wrong, but dangerous," said FHP Col. Chris Knight in a prepared news statement. "Motorists must recognize that speeding increases the likelihood of a crash and its severity."

In Polk County, heavily traveled Interstate 4, U.S. Highway 27, U.S. 98 and State Road 60 are top concerns for law enforcement, agency spokesman Trooper Larry Coggins said.

Troopers in Polk County and throughout the state this week will patrol on the ground and in the air and also will use video cameras and unmarked patrol cars to catch speeders and aggressive drivers.

"We hope to use the education enforcement as a tool to have a safe Thanksgiving holiday," Coggins said. "We are hoping the 48-hour enforcement campaign will reduce the 2004 [holiday weekend] numbers."

Drivers are encouraged to leave early and allow plenty of time for traveling, as roads will be congested this weekend.