State Police 'Speed Week' Crackdown Looks To Reduce Accidents

As NASCAR drivers get set for their upcoming race at Watkins Glen International Raceway, New York’s State Police are kicking off a “Speed Week” of their own – but troopers will only be handing out summonses, not trophies.

State Police Maj. Edward Raso said speeding is the leading cause of fatalities on the state’s highways, with high traffic volumes during the summer increasing the risks to motorists. To keep roads safe, Raso said state troopers throughout New York will be stepping up their speed enforcement efforts from Aug. 8 to 14 ­ ‑ the week that leads up to the Aug. 13-14 race events at Watkins Glen.

“Too often, police officers witness first-hand the tragic and often needless loss of life resulting from highway crashes,” Raso said. “Many of these highway deaths and injuries result from common but illegal actions such as speeding. We’re encouraging the public to think about their driving behavior and comply with speed limits, to help prevent needless tragedies.”

Speeding by all vehicle types, as well as other traffic violations, will be heavily targeted, Raso said, nogting that speed is a contributing factor in about one third of fatal crashes annually. Raso said every available state trooper will be on patrol during Speed Week, watching for speeders, impaired drivers, vehicle occupants who are not properly buckled up and other traffic violations – with extra troopers assigned to major roads.

 “Although aggressive enforcement is essential to saving lives, we encourage motorists to voluntarily comply with New York’s traffic laws,” Raso said. “By driving within posted speed limits, drivers can help ensure safe and uneventful travel for themselves and their families.”

Raso said that by obeying speed limits, drivers can avoid costly tickets and save on fuel consumption.