Sparta Police Participating In Speeding Campaign

The Sparta Police Department is participating in a speeding enforcement campaign to promote safety and reduce speeding.

Sparta Police Chief Nick Dunn said speeding is the main cause of fatalities in crashes. According to the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security, White County has already had three fatal crashes this year. Dunn said three is too many.

“It’s been an ongoing thing and with new drivers coming on at all times and they like to speed,” Dunn said. “They think it’s cool and we need to show them why it’s not, and speeding enforcement is one of those tools that we use to get them to slow down.”

Dunn said most people speed because they are late getting somewhere or they think it’s fun. Dunn said road safety is a collective effort and encourages everyone to be responsible and drive safely.

The department has partnered with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office to promote the campaign. Dunn said the department will hand out flyers and visit schools to spread the message.

“Talking to school-aged children that are coming into their driving years,” Dunn said. “Just making people more aware of their surroundings while they are on the road and behind the wheel.”

Dunn said this is not the first time the department has participated in a speeding campaign.

“We have participated in several campaigns over the years and with prior administrations,” Dunn said. “This is just the newest one that the highway office has done.”