Deputies Target Traffic Violators On U.S. 19

PINELLAS PARK, FL - Pinellas County deputies are targeting traffic violators along U.S. 19 from Pinellas Park to Tarpon Springs as part of a "traffic crash reduction initiative."

During the first 14 days of February, deputies issued warnings for traffic violations that often lead to crashes. These violations include speeding, failure to yield right-of-way, careless driving and distracted driving, deputies said.

But on Thursday, Feb.15, the "educational phase" of the operation ended and deputies began issuing citations for these violations. The enforcement phase will continue until Sunday, April 1. The deputies will conduct strict traffic enforcement during hours of peak traffic volume.

The purpose of the eight-week initiative is to educate drivers about safe driving behavior and reduce the number of traffic crashes along U.S. 19, deputies said.

At the end of the initiative, the Intelligence Led Policing Division will analyze crash data to determine the effectiveness of the initiative.

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