State law enforcement agencies encourage drivers to slow down

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is teaming up with law enforcement agencies statewide on the ‘Not So Fast, Kentucky’ speed awareness campaign through July 10.

“As traffic increases on our roads this summer, we must do our part to help protect ourselves and each other,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Whether you drive a car, truck or motorcycle, put your phone down and slow down.”

The KOHS crash reports and citation data illustrates 31% of Kentucky crashes have to do with a speeding or aggressive driver. In 66% of those speed-related crashes, males are the driver.

“Speed limits are put in place to protect all road users,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Driving over the limit greatly reduces a driver’s ability to respond to unexpected situations such as stopped or slowed traffic, an object in the road, or encountering vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.”

The campaign was funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and KOHS distributed the funds to law enforcement agencies who applied and were approved for full-year grants.

“We frequently hear from officers and Troopers that they would rather write a ticket than make a death notification,” said Secretary Gray.  “I assure you that the goal is not to write tickets, but to save lives, so remember – Not So Fast, Kentucky.”

When dealing with speeding and aggressive drivers, the KOHS provides these tips:

• Wear your seat belt!  It is your best defense against injury and death.
• Do not challenge the driver by speeding up or attempting to hold your lane.
• Give them plenty of space, as they may lose control of their vehicle more easily.
• Avoid eye contact and ignore gestures.
• If you are safely able to report an aggressive driver to law enforcement, provide a vehicle description, license number, location, and if possible, direction of travel.
• If you are being followed by an aggressive driver, drive to a safe place such as the nearest police or fire station, gas station or other places where there are people. Use your horn to get someone’s attention. Do not get out of your car and do not drive home.

For more information, visit notsofastky.com.