The Putnam County Safety Task Force meeting on July 24, 2025, highlighted significant efforts in traffic safety and enforcement, reflecting the community's ongoing concerns about road safety. The meeting revealed that the county's traffic unit, consisting of eight members, has made notable strides since its formation at the beginning of the year.

Since January 1, the traffic unit has conducted over 8,700 traffic stops, resulting in 51 DUI arrests and nearly 1,500 citations. The recent statewide campaign, Operation Southern Slowdown, which took place from July 14 to July 19, contributed to 242 traffic stops, 87 citations, and five DUI arrests. These statistics indicate a proactive approach to addressing traffic violations and enhancing public safety on local roads.

A key focus of the discussions was the issue of distracted driving, which remains a significant concern for law enforcement. The meeting underscored the dangers posed by drivers who are not fully attentive, whether due to texting or other distractions. The traffic unit is actively working to combat this issue, emphasizing the importance of the state's "move over" law, which requires drivers to yield to emergency vehicles.

The meeting also addressed the need for better documentation of traffic stops. While verbal warnings are issued frequently, they lack the formal record that written warnings provide. This documentation is crucial for tracking repeat offenders and ensuring that appropriate actions are taken in subsequent stops.

Overall, the discussions at the Putnam County Safety Task Force meeting reflect a commitment to improving traffic safety and reducing accidents in the community. As the traffic unit continues its efforts, residents can expect increased enforcement and a focus on educating drivers about safe practices on the road. The ongoing initiatives aim to foster a safer driving environment for all Putnam County residents.