DC Area Police Cracking Down on Aggressive Drivers
8 May 2000
Smooth Operator 2000 Begins Its First `Enforcement Wave'WOODBRIDGE, Va. - Starting today and continuing all week, Smooth Operator 2000 will crack down on aggressive driving in the Washington area with a coalition of 25 law enforcement agencies. As part of a new "get tough" campaign, police agencies in the national capital region are combining forces to make driving a safer, less stressful and more pleasant experience. This week will be the first wave of strict enforcement of aggressive driving laws by participating law enforcement agencies, and follows on the heels of a $1.3 million advertising campaign launched last week on Washington area radio stations, in area newspapers, and on outdoor billboards and transit vehicles. For the past five years, area motorists have listed aggressive driving as their number one safety concern. "Starting today, we will be targeting all motorists in the national capital area who drive aggressively," said Smooth Operator Coordinator Sergeant Bud Dulaney of the Prince William County Police Department. "This behavior includes tailgating, making improper lane changes, speeding, running red lights and stop signs, and other unsafe driving behaviors." Sergeant Dulaney noted the intent of the program is very simple. Its goals are to reduce crashes, help prevent injuries, save lives, and improve the driving conditions on area roadways. This week's wave of strict enforcement will be the first of a series over the summer months. To heighten awareness of the aggressive driving problem in the region, a "Taming Aggressive Driving" symposium will be held Tuesday, May 16 at the University of Maryland's Conference Center in College Park. Topics will focus on health and safety issues, and how to change driving behavior. Several hundred people from both the public and private sectors are expected to attend. Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia have been cooperating on this public awareness campaign for nearly 18 months. The coalition behind the campaign includes the region's motor vehicle, law enforcement, and highway safety agencies, along with professionals in trauma medicine and psychology. Funds for Smooth Operator 2000 are being provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the Maryland Office of Traffic and Safety, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, and the District of Columbia Department of Public Works.