TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is cracking down on drivers with a need for speed.
The agency on Monday released the results of a 2021 safety initiative aimed at curbing aggressive driving and speeding along Interstate 4.
“According to the Teletrac Navan study, Interstate 4 is the most dangerous highway in the United States,” Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said.
During the initiative, deputies stopped 5,014 vehicles for speeding or reckless driving and handed out 3,790 tickets.
The agency said 257 drivers were clocked going over 100 mph. One driver who was ticketed had reached a speed of 155 mph.
The speed limits on I-4 in Polk County are 65 and 70 mph.
Deputies arrested 143 people for reckless driving, racing, drug possession, DUI and DUI manslaughter among other charges.
Drivers traveling more than 50 mph over the speed limit could get a $1,104 ticket. They’ll also have to appear in court.
“It is our mission to keep you safe while in Polk County along this stretch of roadway in our county by enforcing the speed limit and arresting those who drive recklessly. Please, slow down and pay attention. Your life and safety are important to us,” Judd said.
