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ECSO to step up traffic patrols
Deputies to focus on high volume roads next month
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The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office will be increasing traffic enforcement as part of a crackdown to be conducted throughout the county next month.

Deputies will be enforcing speeding regulations rigorously and other traffic violations, such as motorists driving under the influence, aggressive driving, seat belt violations and motorists who follow too closely.

“Excessive speed, particularly on local roads, is one of the leading contributors to traffic crashes,” said Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie.

Deputies also have seen a rise in DUI related crashes.

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway. It also extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and it increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver notices and reacts to a dangerous situation.

A team of deputies will begin saturating the roadways on Feb. 1, and will be conducting traffic enforcement both during day and night hours. A minimum of four deputies will be on the roads in daytime. Patrols also will be concentrated on roads where there is a high volume of traffic.

Motorists and pedestrians are reminded to be safe on the road. Drivers should be alert for pedestrians at all times, and should yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and while turning at intersections. Drivers also should obey speed limits, keep their windshields clean, and refrain from blocking crosswalks.

Deputies also remind motorists that even though texting while driving has not been outlawed for all vehicles, drivers can still be cited for driving while distracted.

Pedestrians should be alert when walking. Never assume that a motorist will see you while you are crossing the street. Pedestrians should also cross at the corner, and not jaywalk in between parked cars.