Letters to the editor for Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016

Joining Forces focusing on speeding drivers

The Carson City Sheriff’s Office along with other law enforcement agencies throughout the state will be participating in Joining Forces through the month of January. The focus of the event will be speeding drivers.

Many make New Year’s resolutions that last a couple of days, weeks or even months, but this is one that should be made and stuck to for life. Speed plays a major factor in serious injuries and fatal crashes. When the speedometer goes up, so does the possibility of tragedy occurring.

Most motorists, however, do not believe speeding is as risky as other behaviors, but according to NHTSA, the consequences of driving too fast include:

Greater potential for loss of vehicle control

Reduced effectiveness of occupant protection equipment

Increased stopping distance when the driver perceives a danger

Increased crash severity, leading to more debilitating injuries or death

Unexpected economic and psychological implications of a speed-related crash

Grant funding for this event is provided by the Nevada Department of Public Safety-Office of Traffic Safety. These monies are used to pay for additional deputies who will be out looking for speeding drivers.

Joining Forces is a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement program that promotes statewide enforcement in the areas of DUI, distracted driving, seat belt use, speeding and pedestrian safety. The goal of these enforcement campaigns is to save lives by increasing public awareness about the dangers of making poor choices while driving.

Sgt. Scott McDaniel

Carson City Sheriff’s Office