Florida drivers with a heavy right foot are being warned to slow down or risk getting a ticket as Operation Southern Slow Down begins this week. The week-long enforcement and education campaign is being launched by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in partnership with the Florida Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies.
Read on for all the details on the campaign and how it could affect you.
What is Operation Southern Slow Down?
Florida joins Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee for this annual initiative. It is currently the ninth year of Operation Southern Slow Down, which aims to reduce the risk of crashes and save lives by targeting speeding and reckless driving on interstates and highways. Basically, there will be more patrols and checkpoints on the streets, in addition to public safety messaging.
When is Operation Southern Slow Down?
The program runs for an entire week, beginning Monday, July 14 to Sunday, July 20.
How can I be safe during Operation Southern Slow Down?
According to data from FLHSMV, unsafe driving behaviors like speeding and aggression contributed to 437 fatalities in 2023, representing 13% of all traffic fatalities in the state that year. The bottom line is: you should be driving safely all year-round. Don’t go over the speed limit, avoid tailgating and stay alert for other drivers. Below are road safety reminders shared by FDOT:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other impairing substances.
- Buckle up for every trip and ensure all passengers wear safety belts.
- Remain alert and always drive with caution – put away all distractions, like cell phones, every time you get behind the wheel.
- Practice patience and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Plan your route in advance on FL511.com and allow extra time for traffic during peak travel times.
- Allow more stopping time if driving a larger vehicle, especially on wet pavement.
- Remember to reduce speed in construction zones to enhance road safety.
If you encounter aggressive driving, contact local law enforcement by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.
A new Florida law, which went into effect this month, would impose penalties and jail time for “dangerous excessive speeding,” defined as exceeding the speed limit by 50 mph or recklessly driving faster than 100 mph.
How many people get a ticket during Operation Southern Slow Down?
During last year’s efforts, state and local officers throughout participating states issued a total of 62,258 citations and warnings, with nearly 50,000 specifically for speeding. You don’t want to be one of those citations, so remember to drive safely!