The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office is reaching out to motorists who have developed bad driving habits over time.

Patrol and traffic deputies are working together to watch for motorists who drive aggressively, in excess of the posted speed limit, and are behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol.

The crackdown is timed to coincide with the increase in traffic the sheriff’s office normally sees with the onset of warmer weather. Traffic deputies will work extra hours on weekends through the July 4th holiday.

Lt. W.G. Campbell, supervisor of BCSO’s Traffic Unit, said the enforcement initiative is targeted to take dangerous drivers off the road before their careless habits cause a crash that leads to life-threatening injuries or death.

Campbell said Bradley County recorded 130 traffic deaths from 2000 through 2008. Last year that number grew by 16 making it the 8th highest of the past ten years.

Bradley County went through the first 100 days of the year without a traffic fatality, Campbell points out, but three people have since lost their lives in two crashes on I-75 in less than a week.

"Traffic safety is something everyone should take seriously," Campbell said. "Not everyone does and they are the ones that get pulled over and reminded about bad driving habits."

The majority of traffic stops end with a warning, but citations are issued when they are warranted.

Campbell said traffic offenses are a black mark on your driving record. They can affect your ability to buy insurance or keep insurance.

State citations for speeding can cost up to $391 and points on your driver’s license. For other moving violations fines and court costs can be up to $161. Traffic violations also lead to higher insurance premiums.

Costs are substantially higher for DUI convictions, topping out over a thousand dollars.

During the initiative the traffic unit may focus on specific locations where data shows a need for targeted enforcement.

Sheriff Tim Gobble pointed out three rules for saving lives on the road: Don’t drink and drive, obey the speed limit, and always wear your seatbelt. It’s time to work together to stop the needless loss of life."