Law enforcement agencies in the southeastern United States are gearing up for Operation Southern Slow Down, a comprehensive effort to crack down on speeding.
Starting from Sunday until July 20, law enforcement agencies from South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida and Alabama will intensify their patrols on interstates and highways to detect drivers who are speeding or driving recklessly.
According to Lt. Cortney Wright from the Clemson University Police Department (CUPD), speeding remains the primary cause of collisions across the country.
In 2024, South Carolina experienced a devastating loss of more than 460 lives due to traffic crashes, as reported by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.
Wright stated that there have been a minimum of 18 fatalities this year in Oconee and Pickens County.
Participating in Operation Southern Slow Down is the Clemson University Police Department, alongside other agencies.
Wright stated that the operations of CUPD will be improved, with a focus on areas that typically experience higher speeds, particularly corridors like U.S. 76, S.C. 93, and Perimeter Road.
According to law enforcement, the 100 Deadly Days of Summer is a period when there is typically a surge in fatal crashes involving teenagers. It is during this time that the campaign is being launched.
According to Wright, there has been an increase in the number of people on the road due to various reasons. These include schools closing for vacation, people going on trips, and increased social events and gatherings.
Next week, officers aim to remind drivers about the importance of slowing down and saving lives.
