PHOENIX — The Phoenix Police Department announced this week a new "data-driven" strategy the agency is implementing to stop drivers from speeding in the Valley.
The agency is going to introduce a four-part strategy in areas of the city that have been more prone to serious car crashes.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: La policía de Phoenix tiene una nueva estrategia para evitar que los conductores excedan la velocidad
The month-long enforcement strategy consists of the following:
- Week 1: Use radar trailers to inform drivers of their speed
- Week 2: Motorcycle enforcement
- Week 3: Increased patrol enforcement to monitor speeding
- Week 4: Using radar trailers again to track speed
City officials said the program will aim to focus on educating drivers and maintaining a visible presence on the roads.
“We want the public to know that we are actively working towards making our roads safer for everyone," Assistant Chief Nicholas DiPonzio said in a statement. “This is not about hiding and catching drivers off guard, it's about preventing accidents and saving lives."
The strategy will be deployed multiple times at different target areas throughout the city.
Phoenix reported 301 car-related fatalities in 2022, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation, which was a notable increase from the 243 deaths reported in 2017.
Up to 426 of the state's crash deaths recorded in 2022 were attributed to speeding.
UP TO SPEED
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Deaths on Arizona roads
Data from the Arizona Department of Transportation shows that roadway fatalities have been gradually rising in Arizona over the last decade:
- 2011: 825 deaths
- 2012: 821 deaths
- 2013: 844 deaths
- 2014: 774 deaths
- 2015: 895 deaths
- 2016: 952 deaths
- 2017: 1,000 deaths
- 2018: 1,010 deaths
- 2019: 982 deaths
- 2020: 1,057 deaths
ADOT offers driving tips on its website to help keep people safe on the road.
"There’s always room for improvement when it comes to road safety," the department said on its website.
ADOT's suggestions include:
- Don’t speed or drive aggressively
- Never drive while under the influence of substances
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are doing the same
- When an emergency vehicle is on the side of the road, move over
- Stay extra aware in work zones
- Be prepared for weather conditions that make driving dangerous
"Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, by calling 511, downloading the AZ 511 app and through ADOT’s Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT," the department said.
