POLK COUNTY, FL. – Throughout 2022, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit is conducting a year-long traffic safety initiative on Interstate 4 in response to aggressive driving and excessive speeding within Polk County.
During January 2022, deputies stopped 425 vehicles for various violations, issued 312 citations, and arrested 9 people
Of the 312 citations issued, 102 drivers were traveling between 90-99 miles per hour, 18 drivers were traveling in excess of 100 miles per hour, with the highest speed recorded being 109 miles per hour.
The speed limit on I-4 where it runs through Polk County fluctuates between 65 MPH and 70 MPH. Per Florida Statute 318.18(3)(b), the cost of a traffic citation for speeding in excess of 50 MPH on an Interstate is $1,104 and a required court appearance.
The average speed for citations written was 90 mph in the 70 mph zone and 86 in the 65 mph zone. The traffic safety initiative is ongoing.
“According to the Teletrac Navman study, Interstate 4 is the most dangerous highway in the United States. It is our mission to keep you safe while in Polk County along this stretch of roadway 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,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
On Feb 1, 2022, an Orlando man was run over on I-4 by at least 7 vehicles near Mile Marker 19.
Troopers say a 48-year-old Orlando man was struck and killed by at least seven vehicles as he walked northbound across the eastbound lanes of the interstate for unknown reasons.
In 2021, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit conducted the same year-long (2021) traffic safety initiative on Interstate 4 in response to aggressive driving and excessive speeding within Polk County.
The year-long initiative resulted in 5,014 traffic stops, with the highest speed recorded at 155 MPH.
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