Operation Southern Slow Down: What Georgia Drivers Need to Know to Stay Safe and Avoid Tickets

Driving in Georgia can be a beautiful experience, whether you’re cruising along Interstate 75 through the scenic landscapes or speeding toward the bustling city of Atlanta. However, Georgia has recently implemented a major initiative to keep its highways safe: Operation Southern Slow Down. This speed-awareness program targets dangerous speeding behaviors across the state. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into this effort, the impact it will have on Georgia drivers, and what you need to know to avoid fines and, more importantly, keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

What Is Operation Southern Slow Down?

Operation Southern Slow Down is a speed enforcement campaign aimed at reducing fatalities caused by speeding in Georgia, as well as in Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee. This campaign is especially important as speeding-related accidents continue to rise in the South, and these types of accidents are some of the deadliest on the road. It’s a multi-state initiative where law enforcement from the five states involved will patrol major highways and interstates to crack down on speeding and aggressive driving.

This year, Operation Southern Slow Down runs from July 15th through July 20th and is designed not just to issue tickets, but to raise awareness about the dangers of speeding. Officers will specifically focus on reducing speed-related crashes during this time, aiming to prevent more fatalities like the 349 speed-related deaths recorded in Georgia in 2023.

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Why Is Speeding Such a Big Problem?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was responsible for one out of every five traffic fatalities in Georgia between 2019 and 2023. In fact, between 2019 and 2023, speeding fatalities increased by almost 35% in the state.

In 2023, Georgia had a staggering 349 deaths due to speeding—an alarming figure that underscores the need for stronger enforcement. It’s not just a matter of fines and penalties; speeding is a major cause of life-threatening accidents on our roads.

The more significant concern is that many people don’t fully grasp just how dangerous speeding can be. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the harder it becomes to stop, and the higher the risk of a severe collision. The faster you’re going, the less time you have to react to sudden changes in the road ahead—whether it’s a brake light, an obstacle, or a changing weather condition. Speeding reduces the time you have to assess these situations, which could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Key Goals of Operation Southern Slow Down

The primary focus of Operation Southern Slow Down is to remind drivers to slow down, and it’s not just about issuing tickets. The goal is to prevent crashes and save lives by getting drivers to change their behavior on the road.

Here are some of the specific goals of the program:

• Reducing speeding and aggressive driving: Officers will be actively watching for anyone driving over the speed limit or weaving through traffic at high speeds.

• Increasing awareness about speed-related crashes: The campaign encourages drivers to recognize the severe consequences of speeding—both for themselves and others on the road.

• Targeting high-risk areas: Local and state law enforcement will be focused on high-crash zones, including major highways, interstates, and other roads known for speeding-related incidents.

• Promoting the importance of safe driving practices: The overarching goal is to educate drivers on the importance of maintaining a safe and legal speed. The message is clear: Slow down, save lives.

Leland Malchow

Attorney - Partner

Chris Johnson

Attorney - Partner

Dane Anderson

Associate Attorney

Bailey Marshall

Associate Attorney

How Can You Stay Safe During Operation Southern Slow Down?

If you’re planning to travel through Georgia or neighboring states during Operation Southern Slow Down, it’s important to know the rules and adjust your driving habits accordingly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Obey Speed Limits

This may seem obvious, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that speed limits are there for your safety. They are designed to keep traffic moving at safe speeds based on the road conditions. If you’re driving in a zone with a posted speed limit of 65 mph, for example, avoid pushing the limit. Speeding even a few miles over the limit can make a big difference, especially if conditions suddenly change.

2. Adjust for Weather Conditions

Georgia can experience sudden changes in weather, especially during the summer. Rain, fog, and thunderstorms are common. If it’s raining or visibility is poor, lower your speed even if the weather allows you to drive faster. It’s always better to be safe than to risk an accident.

3. Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

Law enforcement will be on high alert, and you can expect to see more officers patrolling the highways during this campaign. The Georgia State Patrol and local officers will be on the lookout for speeding, reckless driving, and unsafe lane changes.

• Be aware of speed traps and patrol cars. Many times, officers will use unmarked vehicles or spotters in higher traffic areas, so it’s best to remain mindful of your speed and driving habits at all times.

• Be aware of construction zones, too. Speeding in these zones can not only cost you a fine but also put workers and other drivers at risk.

4. Use Cruise Control on Long Drives

If you’re driving on highways or interstate roads, set your cruise control to maintain a safe and steady speed. It can help prevent you from accidentally speeding without realizing it, especially on long stretches of road.

5. Don’t Use Your Phone

Distracted driving is another major cause of accidents. During Operation Southern Slow Down, officers will also be watching for distracted driving behaviors, such as texting, making calls, or using a mobile device while driving. This is illegal in Georgia and many surrounding states. Always pull over safely if you need to use your phone.

6. Drive Defensively

Be aware of other drivers on the road, especially those who may be speeding or driving aggressively. Stay alert to sudden lane changes or vehicles that are tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic. You have the right to drive at a safe and legal speed—don’t feel pressured to go faster than you’re comfortable with.

7. Be Prepared for Increased Law Enforcement

Expect to see more police officers during the campaign. Operation Southern Slow Down means a zero-tolerance approach for speeding, so expect to be stopped if you’re caught breaking the law. Tickets can be costly, and if you’re caught speeding significantly over the limit, there could be even more serious penalties—including fines, points on your license, and possible license suspension.

What Are the Consequences of Speeding in Georgia?

In Georgia, the consequences for speeding can vary depending on the degree of speeding and whether or not there are any aggravating factors (such as reckless driving or speeding in construction zones). Here’s a general breakdown of what you might face:

• For speeding 1-14 mph over the limit: You may receive a fine (typically around $100-$200) and 1 point added to your license.

• For speeding 15-24 mph over the limit: Expect higher fines and the possibility of more points on your license.

• For speeding 25 mph or more over the limit: You may face serious fines, multiple points on your license, and even a possible license suspension.

In addition to fines and points, speeding in certain areas (such as school zones or construction zones) can result in higher fines and harsher penalties. So, always check your speed and be cautious of your surroundings.

What Happens if You’re Caught Speeding in Georgia?

If you’re caught speeding during Operation Southern Slow Down, law enforcement officers will likely pull you over. Expect to receive a ticket for speeding or, if you were speeding excessively or recklessly, potentially an arrest for aggressive driving or reckless driving.

After being pulled over, officers may issue a citation (a ticket) that will require you to either pay the fine or contest it in court. Ignoring the ticket or failing to pay could lead to further legal consequences, such as additional fines or suspension of your driver’s license.

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The Bottom Line: Slow Down to Stay Safe

At the end of the day, Operation Southern Slow Down isn’t just about avoiding tickets—it’s about saving lives. Speeding is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road, and by simply adhering to the speed limit, adjusting your driving habits for the weather, and paying attention to your surroundings, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.

So, during Operation Southern Slow Down and beyond, remember to drive safely, slow down, and always be mindful of the laws that help keep our roads safe. By doing so, you’ll avoid costly fines, stay safe, and help reduce the number of lives lost to speeding accidents across Georgia and the other participating states.

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