The Wisconsin State Patrol began conducting special traffic enforcement patrols on the Madison Beltline (US 12/18) in April 2024 in an effort to prevent risky driving behaviors that can lead to serious injury and fatal crashes.
As a result, the Wisconsin State Patrol conducted over 800 traffic stops resulting in over 1,400 citations and warnings on the Beltline, with some stops producing multiple violations. Officers participated in special Beltline enforcement patrols over the course of 50 days, focusing on the highest traffic times which most often coincided with the morning and afternoon commute.
“We have made many improvements to the Beltline over the years to improve efficiency and safety,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “The effectiveness of these improvements hinges on the efforts of everyone on the road to be mindful of the rules. We urge drivers to follow the speed limit, move over for first responders, pay attention, and be courteous to others on the road.”
The posted speed limit on the Beltline is 55 mph. Approximately one in four speed citations issued on the Beltline this summer were due to a driver going 80 mph or more. Traffic crashes are more dangerous and can be deadly when they involve excessive speeds or other reckless behaviors. In addition, approximately 30 drivers were cited for Operating While Intoxicated.
“Every traffic stop is an opportunity to educate motorists,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Timothy Carnahan said. “Risky driving is a serious threat to the safety of everyone on and alongside the road. These special enforcement patrols allow us to boost our efforts to prevent behaviors that put drivers and others on the road in danger.”
The Wisconsin State Patrol will maintain their presence on the Beltline and will continue to work with partner law enforcement agencies to strengthen their efforts to prevent risky driving in the area.
Most crashes are preventable, and drivers can avoid serious injury or death by following some simple steps:
· Don’t speed. Speed increases the severity of crashes.
· Drive sober. Alcohol and drugs inhibit reaction times and make it harder for a driver to focus on safely operating a vehicle.
· Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt can greatly decrease the severity of injury in a crash. Make sure children are in the proper safety seat.
· Put the phone down. One in five crashes involve distracted driving. Turn off your phone or download an app to prevent incoming and outgoing messages, calls and notifications while driving.
· Drive courteously. Courteous driving encourages other drivers to be courteous. Aggressive driving influences others to drive aggressively.
Visit wisconsindot.gov/FlexLane for more information on the Flex Lane.
