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New York State Cracks Down On Speeders, Other Traffic Violators

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Sunday announced a weeklong crackdown targeting speeders and aggressive drivers around the state.

The "Speed Week" campaign, which continues through Saturday, coincides with the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series at Watkins Glen International Raceway upstate. But speeding belongs only on the racetrack, Cuomo emphasized in a news release.

New York State Cracks Down On Speeders, Other Traffic Violators

"Speeding is the number one cause of deaths on our roads each year, and it is a dangerous activity that puts everyone at risk," Cuomo said in the release. "Starting today, the State Police will be increasing enforcement to put the brakes on drivers who ignore the law and speed. So slow down and drive safely or you will be pulled over."

Speeding by vehicles of all types, and all traffic violations, will be enforced strictly throughout the week, the release said.

About a third of all fatal crashes result from speeding, the release said.

In addition to speeding, New York state troopers will be watching for distracted or impaired drivers, motorists and passengers who fail to buckle up, and drivers who do not obey the "Move over Law" for emergency vehicles.

"Many of our highway deaths and injuries could be prevented if drivers would comply with speed limits and other rules of the road," New York State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D'Amico said in the release. "The New York State Police are committed to enforcing the law on New York's roadways, but we also need the public's help. By obeying these rules you can ensure safe and uneventful travel for you and your family."

More troopers, as well as unmarked state police squad cars, will be visible during the Speed Week campaign.

As 1010 WINS' Gary Baumgarten reported, one man, Austin, said the state is right to crack down.

"They're going above the speed limit, yes, I think they should be pulled over," he said. "The speed limit's 65. Legally, if you drive over that speed limit – that speed limit's set at a certain speed for public safety."

He said the speed limit got bumped up on many New York state interstates from 55 to 65, which he thinks is fast enough.

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