DPS NEWS

Media Availability: DPS “Speeding Wrecks Lives” enforcement & campaign launch

For Immediate Release:

Statewide speed shifts aimed at preventing aggressive driving continue through the summer

WHAT: Media members are invited to interview representatives from the Utah Highway Patrol as they launch a statewide speed enforcement campaign and discuss the critical behavior change that needs to happen when it comes to driving on Utah roads. 

“When we obtain a driver’s license and use the roadways, we agree to follow the laws as a driver. More importantly, we enter into a social contract to actively make the choice to drive safely,” said UHP Major Jeff Nigbur. “It is totally unacceptable to drive your vehicle over the speed limit, especially over 100 mph. Yet we have seen a steady increase in these violations since 2020.”

Ahead of the 24th of July weekend and throughout the summer, law enforcement is reminding Utahns that the consequences of speeding can be disastrous. Utahns should expect to see police in every community stopping drivers who choose deadly behaviors behind the wheel. 

Law enforcement is working extra shifts from July 20th through August 14. During this time, over 200 extra speed shifts are being worked by 12 different Utah law enforcement agencies statewide. 

Sgt. Roden will be available for interviews to speak about the campaign and related statistics.  Lt Hawkes will be available to discuss the speed problem here in Utah and share stories from the field about drivers being stopped multiple times per day.  Media may also ride with a trooper as they intercept speeding vehicles.

WHEN: 

Wednesday, July 20th, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. 

WHERE:

American Red Cross (Parking Lot) 
6616 S 900 E, Murray 

WHO: 

Lt. Jalaine Hawkes, UHP
Sgt. Cameron Roden, UHP
Hillary Koellner, Department of Public Safety (Spanish speaker)

VISUALS: 

• Overpass view from 900 E onto I-215 traffic, with troopers stopping speeding vehicles
• Digital Campaign Assets – via the QR code
• Officers in uniform and trooper vehicles (SL Valley Area Agencies) 
  • Media Ride-Alongs are available upon request

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Sgt. Cameron Roden
DPS/UHP- PIO
croden@utah.gov
385.290.2925