A major city in the United States is taking decisive action to improve road safety, launching a comprehensive crackdown on dangerous driving behaviors. This initiative aims to address a range of issues, from reckless speeding to illegal street racing, and even the fraudulent use of temporary license plates, often referred to as "drive-out tags." The goal is simple: to create a safer environment for all road users, reducing accidents and saving lives.
The city's police department is spearheading this effort, implementing new shift patterns designed to maximize their presence on the roads during peak hours for dangerous driving. This strategic deployment of resources, known as the "Charlie shift," will see more officers patrolling the streets during the afternoon and evening, specifically targeting areas known for high rates of traffic violations and accidents.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by a recent analysis conducted by Forbes Advisor, which examined road fatality rates across the country between 2017 and 2021. The findings revealed a stark reality: the city in question, Memphis, Tennessee, had the highest average fatality rate, with a staggering 25.96 deaths per 100,000 residents attributed to road incidents.
To put this figure into perspective, the national average road fatality rate in the US for 2022 was 13.8 deaths per 100,000 people. This means that the city's rate was nearly double the national average, highlighting the critical need for intervention and a significant improvement in road safety measures.
In response to these alarming statistics, the Memphis Police Department (MPD) took proactive steps in 2023 by reinstating its Special Traffic Enforcement Unit (STEU). This specialized unit is dedicated to tackling traffic-related offenses and reducing the incidence of dangerous driving. Since its reinstatement, the STEU has made notable progress, according to Deputy Chief of Special Operations Samuel Hines.
Reports indicate that the city has witnessed a significant 36% drop in motorist fatalities since the STEU was relaunched. This positive trend suggests that the unit's efforts are having a tangible impact on road safety, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted enforcement and a dedicated focus on traffic violations.
The MPD has emphasized that the STEU is actively patrolling the streets, focusing on a range of offenses including speeding, reckless driving, drag racing, and the misuse of "drive-out tags." The unit's approach is multifaceted, combining increased visibility with strict enforcement of traffic laws.
In cases of repeated reckless driving and speeding, offenders may face serious consequences, including felony charges. A conviction for such offenses could result in a jail sentence of up to six years, along with a substantial fine of $3,000. This underscores the severity with which the city is treating dangerous driving behaviors.
The MPD has attributed the STEU's success to "expanded hours and greater citywide coverage," which have enabled the unit to effectively "keep Memphis streets safe." By increasing its presence on the roads and targeting areas with high rates of traffic violations, the STEU has made significant strides in improving road safety.
Ultimately, the goal of the STEU is to make "daily commutes and neighborhoods safer for everyone." By reducing the incidence of dangerous driving, the unit aims to create a more secure environment for all road users, from drivers and passengers to pedestrians and cyclists.
Building on the STEU's progress, the MPD is now introducing the "Charlie" shift. This new initiative will deploy additional officers on the roads during a 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM shift and a 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM shift. The aim is to replicate the success seen during the day shift by increasing police presence during the afternoon and evening hours, when traffic violations and accidents are more likely to occur.
The decision to implement the "Charlie" shift was inspired by the success of a similar initiative adopted by the department's homicide unit. The positive outcomes achieved by the homicide unit's shift change provided a strong rationale for extending the concept to traffic enforcement.
Looking ahead, several new traffic laws are scheduled to take effect, further strengthening road safety measures. These laws address a range of issues, from speeding and driver education to impaired driving and distracted driving. The implementation of these laws signifies a comprehensive approach to improving road safety and reducing accidents.
One of the key changes involves a new speeding fine structure. Drivers will face a minimum fine of $20, or $5 per mile per hour over the speed limit, whichever is greater. Additional penalties will be imposed for exceeding the speed limit by 16 mph or more. Simultaneously, speed limits on highways will be increased to 80 mph.
Teenage drivers will also be subject to stricter requirements before obtaining a license. The new rules mandate that drivers aged 15 and over complete 50 hours of driver education, a four-hour traffic law and substance abuse course, vision and hearing tests, and obtain parental consent.
Furthermore, a new "clogged-up" law will penalize drivers traveling even 1 mph under the speed limit in the left lanes. Fines will start at $150, increasing to $250-$350 for repeat violations, and could even lead to up to 30 days in jail.
Drivers convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) will be required to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles. These devices prevent the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver's breath sample.
A hands-free law will also be implemented, banning the use of handheld phones while driving. Fines for violating this law will reach $250 in school or construction zones.
Speed enforcement cameras will be installed in various locations, and repeat offenders will face fines ranging from $40 to $80, depending on the speed over the limit.
Police will also be authorized to tow vehicles with a single unpaid parking ticket older than 45 days or four unresolved citations.
With reduced visibility, impaired driving, and driver fatigue all occurring more frequently in the evenings, Chief Hines expressed optimism that the STEU's new shift will make a significant difference in improving road safety during these critical hours.