Law enforcement agencies across five southeastern states have officially kicked off the ninth annual Operation Southern Slow Down, a week-long speed enforcement and public awareness campaign running from July 13–19.

The joint effort brings together state and local police in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee—including the Tennessee Highway Patrol—to curb reckless driving and prevent serious traffic injuries and fatalities during the peak summer travel season.

Increased Enforcement on Major Highways

Throughout the week, motorists will see a heavily heightened police presence. Officers will be actively targeting:

• Speeding and aggressive driving

• Reckless driving and lane violations

• Distracted driving and seat belt compliance

During last year’s campaign, over 490 participating agencies issued more than 52,000 speeding citations and warnings, alongside 1,440 DUI arrests and 2,234 reckless driving violations.

The High Cost of Speeding

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of all national traffic fatalities in 2024, and accounted for 21% of fatal crashes across the five participating southeastern states.

Highway safety leaders emphasize that high speeds shrink a driver’s reaction time and compromise standard vehicle safety features.

“The goal for ‘Operation Southern Slow Down’ is not to write tickets, but to get more drivers to see that traveling at slower and safer speeds prevents families and friends from losing loved ones in crashes that are preventable.” — Allen Poole, Director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety

Safety Tips for Drivers

Authorities urge everyone on the road to make smart decisions behind the wheel this summer:

1. Give speeders space: If someone is tailgating you, safely change lanes and let them pass.

2. Use the left lane properly: Keep the far-left lane open for passing only.

3. Buckle up: Always ensure every passenger is properly restrained.

4. Stay alert and slow down: Protect yourself and others so everyone makes it home safely.