Latest news with #SummerSlowdown
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Yahoo
Tri-agency traffic enforcement targets excessive speeding on I-565
MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — Multiple department came together to crack down on people driving too fast along I-565 in Madison County. The Huntsville Police Department (HPD), Madison Police Department (MPD) and the Madison County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) carried out a targeted split radar operation on Monday, July 14, along the I-565 corridor. 'This isn't just about speeding – it's about the very real consequences of reckless driving,' HPD Chief Kirk Giles said. 'Through our Summer Slowdown initiative and this collaboration, we're reminding drivers that speed kills. Enforcement is just one piece of the puzzle. The real goal is changing behavior before a tragedy happens.' From 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., officers and deputies from the three agencies monitored I-565 from Wall Triana Highway to Chapman Mountain and focused on aggressive drivers going well beyond the speed limit. According to authorities, more that 140 vehicles were stopped in just over six hours. Officers issued 104 citations and 79 written warnings. Authorities said that one driver was clocked at 97 miles per hour. 'In the spirit of inter-agency cooperation, this joint enforcement event highlights law enforcement's commitment to public safety in general and traffic safety in particular,' MPD Chief Johnny Gandy said. 'Each of the major law enforcement agencies in Madison County came together with a common goal to ensure safe roads for the motoring public and to reduce senseless speed related crashes that, far too often, result in serious injuries or death.' 'We've seen firsthand how lives can change in an instant because of reckless speeding,' MCSO Sheriff Kevin Turner said. 'Our goal isn't to write tickets, it's to save lives. When agencies come together like this, it sends a clear message: slow down, drive responsibly, and help us keep our roads safe.' The joint enforcement effort is part of a broader commitment by local law enforcement to prioritize roadway safety and reduce speed-related crashes as traffic increases throughout the summer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Yahoo
HPD's ‘Summer Slowdown' encourages drivers to hit the brakes, not exceed the limit
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — As summer gets underway, the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is urging all drivers to be more aware and slow down – especially on city streets and in neighborhoods around the city. The Summer Slowdown campaign, which is running from June 9- August 12, is aimed at curbing dangerous driving habits and reducing crashes through a combination of education and enforcement efforts. HPD added that the campaign is also about protecting our youth in the city whether its kids playing outside, or teens getting behind the wheel for the first time. 'This isn't just about traffic enforcement – it's about protecting lives,' Huntsville Police Chief Kirk Giles said. 'Summer Slowdown is our effort to reduce dangerous driving, increase awareness and keep our community safe every time someone gets behind the wheel.' To combat these trends, HPD will increase patrols and enforcement in high-risk areas and residentials neighborhoods where speeding complaints are common. The department will also share ongoing education and safety reminders through social media and community events to encourage responsible driving habits. 'Enforcement alone won't solve the problem,' Huntsville Police Chief Giles said. 'We must engage with our community to educate drivers on the real risks of speeding – from deadly crashes to the financial and legal consequences they will face.' So far in 2025, Huntsville has seen 12 fatal crashes, with speed playing a primary or contributing role. Between January and May, HPD issued 2,625 citations and 1,641 written warnings – most involving drivers exceeding the speed limit by at least 10 miles per hour. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
