FHP cracking down on aggressive drivers

If you like to speed, tailgate or weave through traffic on the state’s highways, the Florida Highway Patrol is looking to spoil your fun.

The FHP launched its Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks (TACT) campaign Friday. The crackdown, which targets cars and commercial trucks, runs through Aug. 24.

Besides traffic stops, troopers are working with the Florida Trucking Association in schools and community centers to educate drivers, promote safe driving habits, and increase awareness.

Of particular concern is how cars and tractor trailers share the road.

A 5,000-pound car driving 65 mph will come to a complete stop within 316 feet on dry pavement. But a tractor-trailer weighing up to 80,000 pounds driving 65 mph will need about 525 feet to stop, according to the National Safety Council.

“We remind drivers to exercise patience when driving around large trucks and other vehicles to ensure the safety of everyone on the roadway,” said FHP Col. Gene Spaulding.

Nearly 90 percent of fatal crashes involving large trucks are caused by both car and truck driver errors.

Only 12 percent are the result of poor weather, mechanical problems or road conditions, the highway patrol said.

There are three or four TACT campaigns annually.

So far this year, the FHP has issued 15,477 citations during its first TACT campaign from February 24 to March 9.

During 2016, FHP troopers issued 67,144 citations to aggressive drivers. Among the patrol’s safety recommendations: Stay out of truck drivers’ blind spots and pass on the left where there is more visibility,

Change lanes only when both of the truck’s headlights can be seen in your rearview mirrors,

Don’t tailgate trucks because your view of the road is restricted and there is less reaction time if the truck slows down or makes a sudden stop,

Don’t cut off trucks because it takes longer for the heavier vehicles to stop.

To report aggressive or dangerous driving, call *FHP [*347] on your cellphone.