LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) – State and local law enforcement officers are continuing increased patrols through Sunday, August 2, as part of Operation Slowdown, a statewide initiative targeting speeding drivers.
The effort is part of TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign. Patrols began July 18 and run through Aug. 2. Drivers caught speeding or traveling too fast for conditions can expect a citation.
Speed-related crashes a leading cause of traffic deaths
Speeding is the number one cause of traffic crashes in Texas, according to TxDOT. In 2025, speed-related crashes killed more than 1,200 people and seriously injured more than 5,500 others — accounting for roughly one-third of all traffic deaths statewide.
Officials said speeding reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance and raises the likelihood that a crash results in a fatality.
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