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Police Crackdown on Nevada Speeders

One of the largest crackdowns on speeding is about to begin in Nevada and the Department of Public Safety says this campaign can't kick off soon enough.

In Nevada, 2006 was the worst year on record for traffic fatalities -- 432 people lost their lives and speeding was a factor in nearly 40-percent of those deadly crashes.

Speeding is a serious problem and just about every law enforcement agency in the state will be involved in the "Slow Down Nevada" campaign targeting dangerous drivers with a need for speed.

Director Phil Galeoto, Department of Public Safety, said, "We only have speed limits for one reason. They're established based upon establishing safe roads and highways in our state."

Drivers may not see them, but police say they will be out in full force going after speeding drivers.

Clark County Sheriff Doug Gillespie said, "If you're going 56 in a 55, are we going to write you a ticket? I don't think that's the case. But the reality of it is we're going to be watching the posted speed limits very closely, and don't be surprised if you get stopped and get written a ticket."

Sheriff Gillespie says they mean business. He's urging police officers not to give out any warnings.

"I don't want people given warnings for speeding. I don't want people given warnings for disregarding traffic control devices, and I don't want people given warnings for not wearing [their] seatbelts. Those are three areas that every time you get stopped, and you're in violation of those, you should be cited," the sheriff continued.

Officials hope the crackdown will make a difference and that drivers get the message to hit the brakes.

Joan Hayes, a local driver, summed it up, "Slow down. Put your seatbelt on. Be courteous. Please!"

The enforcement wave of the "Slow Down Nevada" campaign is funded by grants.

Throughout the month of March, there will be 25 main events where officers will be on patrol and their main task will be pulling over speeders.

Enail your comments to Reporter Aaron Drawhorn.

Police say as many as half of the lives lost in car accidents in 2006 could have been saved had people worn their seat belts.

On Feb. 27th in Carson City, the Nevada Senate Transportation Committee will hear a proposal to make Nevada's seat belt law a primary offense.

If Senate Bill 42 is passed, law enforcement could stop you and ticket you for not wearing your seat belt. They can ticket you now, but under the current law they need some other reason to stop you.