Texas Department of Transportation launches ‘Be Safe. Drive Smart.’ speed campaign

AUSTIN, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Texas Department of Transportation is partnering with law enforcement to launch its summer “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign to encourage motorists to slow down on the road.

According to officials with TxDOT, speed was a factor in more than 160,000 traffic crashes in Texas last year and 1,456 people were killed in speed-related crashes accounting for a third of all traffic deaths.

“Speeding is one of the deadliest problems on our roads,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Getting to the office, home or wherever you’re going a few minutes faster isn’t worth putting your life or the lives of others at risk”.

Officials noted the number of traffic crashes in the Amarillo District in 2023 that involved speeding totaled 2,193 resulting in 24 deaths and 119 serious injuries. TxDOT officials stated that this campaign coincides with Operation Slowdown, a statewide, high-visibility speed limit enforcement period.

Officials also stated that Texas law enforcement agencies will step up efforts to get drivers to slow down or pay up from July 19 through Aug. 4. TxDOT officials provided tips for drivers to keep themselves and others safe and avoid a ticket:

• Match your speed to road conditions, such as bad weather or driving through a work zone.
• Slow down and allow for more distance to stop when traffic is heavy or roads are slick.
• Watch for road signs alerting you of reduced speed limits ahead.

Officials stated that TxDOT actively monitors roadways throughout the state to identify patterns that may help implement additional safety measures to prevent speeding alongside the “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” messages being broadcasted on TV, radio, billboards, gas pumps, theater screens, and social media. TxDOT officials also noted that TxDOT is hosting community events featuring an interactive exhibit of safety quizzes and video displays at select Buc-ee’s locations along major travel corridors.

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