Police crack down on Naples speeders for “Operation Southern Slow Down.”

Beware of speeding in Florida.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the Florida Highway Patrol, and local law enforcement agencies have teamed up for the annual “Operation Southern Slow Down,” a collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the states of Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

The organizations, including the Tallahassee Police Department, would be “increasing their presence” to combat speeding and aggressive driving, according to a recent article by Julie Garisto of Naples Daily News.

“The Florida Highway Patrol will be working with our many dedicated law enforcement partners toward providing highway safety,” stated Col. Gary L. Howze, director of the Florida Highway Patrol, in a blog post on the FHP’s website. “Your FHP troopers will be on patrol monitoring traffic for hazardous drivers and enforcing traffic laws along Florida’s state highways in support of Operations Southern Slowdown.”

Over 13,296 crashes in Florida in 2022 will be the result of speeding or driving too fast for the circumstances, according to preliminary FLHSMV data. Speeding was responsible for 10.5% of all collision fatalities statewide, totaling more than 368 deaths.

“Remember to be patient behind the wheel and obey the posted speed limit,” TPD stated in a social media post.

When will ‘Operation Southern Slowdown’ be implemented?
State and local law enforcement agencies in all five states will hold a week-long speed enforcement awareness campaign from July 15-20, with the goal of saving lives and avoiding reckless driving and speeding.

Tips from the Florida Highway Patrol
As you drive, here are some recommendations to keep safe on Florida’s roads this summer:

• Expect more traffic during peak travel periods. Make a plan and set up enough time to drive.
• Buckle up and ensure that all passengers are strapped up throughout the ride.
• Slow down in construction zones. Keep in mind that construction activity rises over the summer months.
• No matter how excited you are to arrive to your location, speeding and aggressive driving are harmful. Maintain patience and give other drivers plenty of space.
• Slow down during twilight and at night to allow for wildlife crossings.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News