Nevada, California Highway Patrol team up to save lives in stepped up 'I-80 Challenge'
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Tue, 07/02/2019 - 4:28pm
The Nevada Highway Patrol is partnering with the California Highway Patrol’s Valley Division and Golden Gate Divisions to participate in an “I-80 Challenge.” This effort aims to reduce speeding drivers along Interstate 80 from San Francisco, Calif. to the Nevada/Utah Stateline from Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at 6:01 p.m. through Sunday, July 7, at 11:59 p.m.
We will accomplish this by enhancing traffic safety, enforcement, and education along this section of the National Highway System. The “I-80 Challenge” coincides with the CHP’s annual Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).
“Speeding endangers everyone on the road, speed limits are put in place to protect all road users,” said CHP Valley Division Chief Brent Newman. “We want to accomplish our goal of saving lives by educating motorists about the dangers of speeding and encouraging everyone to follow the rules of the road and drive safely.”
The CHP and NHP are asking motorists to accept the “I-80 Challenge” by promoting awareness and safe driving along the route. During the “I-80 Challenge,” the CHP and NHP will increase traffic safety operations to educate and take appropriate enforcement action on drivers who violate traffic laws along Interstate 80.
“Speeding is one of the most common factors contributing to traffic crashes. Driving too fast can turn a near miss into a crash or fatality,” added Nevada Highway Patrol Colonel John O’Rourke. “The Nevada Highway Patrol, along with our partners at CHP, remain dedicated to bringing the number of fatalities on our roadways to zero.”
In 2017, 1,165 people were killed in speed-related crashes in California and Nevada. That means just over three people are killed in crashes involving speed every day. Slow down and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
