Arkansas law enforcement kicks off weeklong speed enforcement

Law enforcement officers across Arkansas are kicking off a weeklong speed enforcement campaign Monday.

The intensified enforcement plan involving both state and local departments will continue through Sunday, July 19, according to an Arkansas State Police news release. Additionally, throughout the month of July, the Arkansas State Police will contribute patrol resources in a regional speed enforcement plan that targets speeding violators on particular selected days of the week. The participating states include Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.

“Speeding is synonymous with tragedy and death on our roadways,” said Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “It’s a proven fact, higher speeds significantly reduce a driver’s reaction time and ability to steer safely around other vehicles, roadway hazards, and unexpected highway exits or detours in highway construction zones.”

Drivers who ignore the speed limit put themselves, their passengers, and others at tremendous risk.

During calendar year 2018, speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. and 9,378 people lost their lives in the crashes, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In Arkansas 131 deaths were attributed to speed-related crashes during 2018.

Already this year, Arkansas traffic fatalities are on the rise. According to preliminary NHTSA fatality analysis reporting data, fatalities in speeding-related crashes are increasing at an alarming rate. Through the end of June, 84 people have died in speed-related crashes, compared to 63 at the same time last year which equates to a 33% increase.

“Driving above the posted speed limit or speeding during inclement weather conditions dramatically increases the probability that a motorist will be involved in a crash,” Bryant said. “State troopers want to be sure the highways are safe and stopping speeding drivers is a top priority.”

More information on the “Obey the Sign, or Pay the Fine” mobilization can be found at trafficsafetymarketing.gov or contact the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at 501-618-8136. Additional information about Arkansas’ ongoing “Toward Zero Deaths” initiative to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities can be found at TZDarkansas.org