Extra patrol scheduled during spring break

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March 9, 2013

Extra patrol scheduled during spring break

Anonymous Weatherford Democrat The Weatherford Democrat Sat Mar 09, 2013, 04:53 PM CST

With spring break for area schools this week, the Weatherford Police Department reminds the public to practice safe driving while behind the wheel.

Recently, officers conducted speed compliance and seatbelt surveys on three local roadways: South Main, South Bowie and Palo Pinto Streets. Speed surveys indicated that just 23 percent of drivers were driving at or below posted speed limits on Palo Pinto Street. On South Bowie Street, just 40 percent were driving in compliance with posted speed limits and just 50 percent of drivers on South Main were traveling in compliance with posted speed limits.

Average driver seatbelt compliance was about 96 percent and front seat passenger seatbelt compliance was approximately 93.59 percent.

Grant funding allows Weatherford Police Department to have extra police patrol enforcement out during the week of spring break (March 8-17). The Texas Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Program grant monies will pay overtime salaries for officers to conduct Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) activities. STEP activities are geared to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the road during holiday periods as well as enforce speed and seatbelt compliance.

For many, spring break may mean vacations and traveling. Weatherford Police Department Patrol Capt. David Smith has this advice for area drivers: “Please use care and caution when traveling. Always wear your seatbelts and encourage your passengers to do the same. Be mindful of your surroundings and drive at posted speed limits. Spring break is a time to get out and enjoy a recess from the norm but remember to have a designated driver if your plans include consuming alcoholic beverages.”