NEW YORK (WBNG) — State Police and local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols this week to crack down on speeding as part of the state’s second summer “Speed Week.”
The high-visibility enforcement campaign runs from Monday, Aug. 3, through Sunday, Aug. 9, a time considered one of the most dangerous on the road.
According to the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), one-third of all crashes in New York State involve speeding.
“Sometimes people aren’t used to that traffic, and then they get a little bit of road rage. Or they try to speed around other cars, zigzag, and they do all types of unsafe behavior that could cause an accident. In addition to things like Spiedie Fest and events going on throughout the summer, we still have kids that are out of school,” said New York State Trooper Aga Tinker.
The state’s first Speed Week of the year, held in June 2026, resulted in 56,578 tickets issued statewide, including 14,005 for speeding, 2,220 for distracted driving and 1,386 for impaired driving.
State police say Troop C alone saw about 1,900 people ticketed during last year’s campaign, down slightly from about 2,300 in June 2025.
“A lot of times now, the GPS [systems] will tell us what the speed limit is, so that can often help you. You can set your cruise control so that you stay at the correct speed. Just always keep your eyes focused on the road,” Tinker said.
According to federal highway safety data, speeding-related crashes accounted for 11,288 fatalities in 2024, representing 29% of all traffic deaths nationwide, with young drivers statistically at the highest risk.
Additionally, state police say even minor speeding violations can lead to major consequences for an individual’s license, insurance and wallet.
“Anywhere from one to 10 miles an hour over the speed limit could get you three points on your license in addition to whatever fines. So just those points can cost you, whether it be in court fees or insurance rates. And the more points that you get, it’s possible that your insurance could potentially drop you or you could lose your license,” Tinker said.
New York State Police urge all drivers to slow down, stay alert and enjoy the rest of the summer at the posted speed limit.
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