Today the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) announced the results from Speed Awareness week which took place September 9 to 15. This campaign was a collaboration of law enforcement agencies throughout New York State to stop speeding and prevent avoidable crashes caused by unsafe speed.

Law enforcement across New York State issued more than 50,000 tickets during the annual Speed Awareness week which took place from September 9 to 15, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee announced. 
This campaign was a collaboration of law enforcement agencies throughout New York State to stop speeding and prevent avoidable crashes caused by unsafe speed. 

"The consequences of speeding are not worth taking the chance,” Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Governor's Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said. “When we go out on the road, it is our responsibility to be cautious and protect ourselves and others. Speeding is a choice and not the right one." 

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Keeping our roadways safe is one of our top priorities and partnering with law enforcement agencies to support initiatives like this are vital to raising awareness about the dangers of speeding. We hope that educating motorists on the tragic consequences of speeding will encourage them to make responsible decisions when getting behind the wheel. I commend our State Troopers and all members of law enforcement for the work they do each day to improve safety on our roadways.”

Delaware County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association Craig DuMond, said, “Many people heeded our advice recently by driving the speed limit and getting to their destination safely. Some people did not Obey the Sign, so they will have to Pay the Fine. Law enforcement will continue to slow down aggressive drivers to make the roads safer for everyone. The Sheriffs of New York State ask you to be a courteous driver and obey the speed limit.”

Data shows fatal crashes in New York caused by unsafe speed increases during the summer and fall months with the highest totals in June through October. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding causes: 

• Greater potential for loss of vehicle control; 
• Reduced effectiveness of occupant protection equipment; 
• Increased stopping distance after the driver perceives a danger; 
• Increased degree of crash severity leading to more severe injuries; and 
• Increased fuel consumption/cost. 

About GTSC 
Combined with education and enforcement campaigns, GTSC coordinates various traffic safety activities throughout the year, and supports ongoing initiatives to improve pedestrian, motorcycle and bicycle safety. The GTSC also sponsors critical training for law enforcement, provides resources for teen drivers and their parents, and promotes seatbelt use statewide. 

For more information about traffic safety in New York State, please visit the GTSC website.