Local deputies participate in Operation Southern Slowdown

Those zany Main Street Skeleton helped get the word out this week about Operation Southern Slow Down. Local deputies will intensify enforcement of speeding, impaired driving , and seat belt violations from Monday through Friday of this week. | PHOTO PROVIDED

LYNCHBURG — The Moore County Sheriff’s Department is partnering with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) for Operation Southern Slow Down this week in Lynchburg.

The purpose of this multi-jurisdictional campaign is to increase traffic enforcement during July 15 – 19 to reduce speeding across the Southeast. Other participating states include Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.

During this campaign, Moore County Sheriff’s deputies will increase education, awareness, and enforcement efforts to help reduce speeding-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities across Tennessee.

“In the last two years, our County has had 263 total crashes including 18 distracted drivers accidents, 13 speeding crashes, 13 impaired by alcohol and another 12 impaired by drugs, plus wrecks caused by 12 drowsy drivers. This is in addition a to a host other violations,” said Deputy Maygan Silavong, who helps with safety campaigns, and events to raise awareness on driver safety.

During the Campaign, Moore County deputies will be step up enforcement of speed limits, watching for unbelted drivers, and monitoring motorist for other unsafe driving habits in an effort to change behaviors and making our community safer.

The State of Tennessee requires motorists to always exercise due care and maintain a safe speed while driving. Speed limits may vary depending on the county and road conditions; therefore, drivers must always pay attention and adhere to posted speed limits to ensure the safety of all roadway users. The THSO provides grant funding to support the enhanced enforcement efforts during this campaign. For more information about the THSO, click here. •

{The Lynchburg Times is a nonpartisan, independent community newspaper serving Lynchburg, Tennessee and the surrounding counties. We are dedicated to public service journalism for the greater good of our community. You can support us, by clicking here.}