News

April 12, 2010
Virginia State Police Return to Interstates 295, 85 & 77 for Operation Air, Land & Speed

RICHMOND – As spring returns to the Commonwealth, so are the Virginia State Police to Interstate 77 outside of Wytheville, Interstate 295 in Metro-Richmond, and Interstate 85 south of the Tri-Cities as part of the continuing Operation Air, Land & Speed traffic safety effort. The two-day operation begins Monday, April 12, 2010, and concludes Tuesday night, April 13, 2010.

By targeting aggressive drivers, speeders and impaired drivers, Virginia State Police hope to further reduce the chances of traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities from occurring on the three selected interstate corridors.

With the increased presence of troopers on the interstates as part of the safety initiative, motorists are reminded to comply with Virginia’s “Move Over” law. The state law requires drivers to change to another travel lane or, when not able to, to cautiously pass emergency personnel stopped on the side of the road.

The comprehensive enforcement project will utilize troopers, supervisors and motor carrier troopers. State police operational duties on other interstates, primary and secondary roads will not be affected during the operation. Funding for the enforcement initiative is provided through federal highway safety monies.

Funds generated from summonses issued by Virginia State Police go directly to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding and teacher retirement.

Spring Motorcycle Safety Reminder
“As the spring weather entices more people to take to the roads to enjoy the warm temperatures and scenery, we remind everyone to be more aware of other motorists,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “It’s easy to become distracted when enjoying the views Virginia has to offer this time of year. However, the driver’s primary focus must be on the road in order to keep our highways as safe as possible for everyone’s sake.”

Within the first 10 days of April five motorcyclists have lost their lives in traffic crashes on Virginia’s highways. The number of motorcycles on the roads traditionally increases in the spring months.

• Drivers are reminded to be on alert for motorcycles, especially when pulling out into or across traffic, and when changing lanes.
• Riders are encouraged to wear proper riding gear and take advantage of motorcycle training safety courses (available through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/webdoc/citizen/drivers/m_course.asp).
• All motorists are advised to comply with speed limits, avoid tailgating, use signals when appropriate, and be courteous and responsible when sharing the road with one another.

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