RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Governors Highway Safety Program is kicking off its annual Operation Crash Reduction campaign, urging drivers to slow down, buckle up and eliminate distractions while on the road.
The statewide campaign, which began today and runs through Oct. 18, is part of a broader initiative led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to curb dangerous driving behaviors through high-visibility enforcement and educational awareness.
This years campaign arrives at a critical moment, as October historically sees higher rates of serious or deadly crashes compared to other months, with 144 deadly crashes recorded on North Carolina roads in October of last year.
Throughout the campaign, North Carolina law enforcement agencies will also increase patrols and implement radar operations and speed display signs. Speeding and reckless driving remain serious concerns on N.C. roads, where a total of 1,426 deadly crashes occurred in 2025. North Carolina law enforcement agencies issued more than 143,000 speeding violations and nearly 24,000 reckless driving violations that year.
NCGHSP Director Mark Ezzell said fall traffic, shorter daylight hours and seasonal events can create added risks on North Carolina roads. Officials are urging drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and wear seat belts during the enforcement window.
The campaign ties autumn travel peaks from schooling events, festivals, football games and fall foliage to a statewide push for slower speeds and focused driving through Oct. 18 now.
