Marion Police Crack Down on Speeding With New Traffic Campaign

MARION (WBSM) — The Marion Police Department is launching an enhanced traffic campaign to counter the recent rise in speeding and reckless driving throughout town.

Starting July 22, Marion Police will have additional officers patrolling the roads, enforcing local speed limits and cracking down on distracted driving.

"Speeding and reckless driving are serious public safety concerns," Chief Richard Nighelli said. "Not only does speeding endanger the life of the driver and any passengers in their vehicle but also anyone else on or near the roadway, including cyclists and pedestrians."

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According to the Select Board and Police Department, traffic complaints throughout town are rising. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported speeding contributed to 29 percent of serious crashes in 2022.

Over the next four weeks, patrols specifically for traffic enforcement will be on the streets in addition to regular patrol officers.

During roadside stops, officers will provide the operator with as much safe driving education as possible. In most cases, the stops are resolved with a verbal or written warning or possibly with a civil citation.

"Whether the driver is a resident of Marion or just driving through town, everyone needs to obey our driving rules and operate their vehicles safely," Chief Nighelli said. "We all have a part to play in making our roads safe for everyone."

Safe Driving Tips From The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Obey the speed limit. Speeding is a major cause of crashes. Refrain from speeding to keep up with traffic or friends on the road. Speeding tickets can be pricey and will increase your car insurance premium.
• Don't text and drive. The average text takes your eyes off the road for five seconds, or the length of a football field, while traveling at 55 mph.
• If you can, keep your phone off while behind the wheel. This will help to ensure the driver's focus remains solely on the road. Engaging in tasks like reaching for your phone, dialing, and texting increases the risk of crashing threefold.
• Be a defensive driver. Always remain aware of traffic ahead, behind, and next to your vehicle at all times. Stay at least one car length behind the car in front of you, especially in areas with a slower speed limit. Remember to split the road with cyclists, even if shared lanes are not marked. Turn your headlights on to increase visibility.

"Drivers need to safely share the road with everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians," Select Board Chairman Norman Hills said. In addition, NHTSA offers some walking safety tips for pedestrians:

• Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic as far from traffic as possible.
• Cross a street at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.