CONROE, TX – Music sensation and Conroe native Parker McCollum is maintaining his hometown roots by partnering with the Texas Department of Transportation. McCollum is featured in a new public service announcement for the department’s new ‘Be Safe. Drive Smart.’ campaign calling on his fellow Texans to slow down and be safe.
The campaign runs alongside Operation Slowdown, a special speed law enforcement period. From July 18 through August 3, officers from multiple agencies across Texas will focus extra attention on motorists who are driving too fast, reminding them to slow down and match their speed to road conditions.
Speed contributed to nearly 160,000 traffic crashes in Texas in 2024, resulting in 1,467 deaths. That’s 35% of all traffic crash fatalities in the state, making speed the number one contributing factor in crashes.
“Speeding is not an accident, it’s a choice,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “When you choose to drive even just a little over the speed limit, you’re not only risking your own life, you’re risking the lives of every other person on the road with you and that’s not being a good Texan.”
Safe driving means more than just following the speed limit. Drivers should follow these tips to stay safe and avoid a ticket:
- Match your speed to road conditions.
- Slow down and allow for more distance to stop when traffic is heavy, roads are slick or road construction is ahead.
- Watch for road signs alerting you of reduced speed limits.
- Remember that traffic fines double if you speed in a school zone or a work zone when workers are present.
The PSA will air on TV stations, cable channels, and digital platforms across Texas starting this week.
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