Florida campaign targets unsafe driving around commercial trucks

Nov. 13, 2012

This week the Florida Highway Patrol will kick off a campaign targeting aggressive driving around big rigs aimed at reducing commercial truck-related crashes, injuries and fatalities.

The program, called TACT — or Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks — combines outreach and education with targeted enforcement activities to raise awareness among car and truck drivers about safe driving behaviors.

“The Florida Highway Patrol is committed to reducing the number of commercial vehicle related crashes,” said Col. David Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Crash reduction can be achieved if we all share the highway with each other and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.”

Troopers will be on the lookout for violations attributed to aggressive driving such as tailgating, unsafe lane changes and speeding.

In addition to targeted enforcement, the campaign uses billboard and radio messaging to increase awareness among car and truck drivers of safe driving behaviors around one another and of the heightened risk of receiving a ticket for a violation.

“Safety on Florida‘s roadways is a cooperative effort by cars and trucks alike. As an industry, safety is at the top of our minds — it matters above all else,” said Mary Lou Rajchel, Florida Trucking Assn. president and CEO. “We are pleased with the opportunity to take our No Zone message about safe driving behaviors around big rigs on the road with the Florida Highway Patrol. Pairing the big trucks equal big blind spots message with the opportunity to see what our drivers see through community education is a unique approach that we believe will promote responsible driving for everyone.”

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Deborah Whistler

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