The Sconi

In collaboration to enhance the safety of a busy highway stretch, the Wisconsin State Patrol engaged in a joint operation with the Dane County Sheriff's Office, Madison Police Department, and Monona Police Department. The operation focused on US 12/18 (Beltline) in Dane County and took place this week using aerial support in conjunction with ground vehicles.

On Monday and Wednesday, Wisconsin State Patrol airplanes were deployed to enforce speed limits and aggressive driving regulations near the Monona Drive interchange on the Beltline. The outcomes of these efforts included 67 traffic stops, among which there were four instances of vehicles exceeding 100 mph, including two motorcycles riding recklessly, nine instances of Flex Lane violations, two Operating While Under the Influence incidents, one hazardous material tanker speeding 15 mph over the limit, and an average speed of 83 mph for speeding traffic stops.

The region's speed limit is 55 mph. Violations involving speeds of 25 mph over this limit can lead to a mandatory 15-day suspension of the driver's license.

Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan addressed the results, stating, "The results of this recent enforcement effort make one thing clear – people need to slow down and drive safely. 100 mile per hour speeds on the Beltline, or anywhere, are unacceptable. That type of driver behavior puts everyone else in danger and makes our roads less safe. Thank you to our Dane County law enforcement partners as we continue working together to make the Beltline safer for drivers."

The Wisconsin State Patrol and its partners in Dane County law enforcement have plans to continue these enforcement initiatives throughout the year. They aim to reduce incidents of speeding and reckless driving while also providing education on the laws to motorists. Although enforcement efforts are usually announced publicly beforehand, the primary target is to promote the education of motorists on safe driving practices, encourage voluntary compliance with traffic laws, and ensure safer road conditions in Wisconsin.