Safe driving campaign targets New York speeding

Many motorists believe driving a few miles per hour over the speed limit is harmless. However, it can make the difference between life and death, especially if a bicyclist or pedestrian is involved.

The speed limit in New York City is 30 mph, though some fail to abide by the law. New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan and Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly are launching new efforts to slow drivers down.

"Even 10 mph too fast can mean the difference between life and death," says Sadik-Khan. "As we make our safe streets even safer for everyone [who] uses them, every New Yorker needs to follow all the rules of the road whether in a car, on foot or on a bike."

New advertisements coupled with increased law enforcement are meant to increase awareness among New York drivers. Research from NYC DOT found almost two-thirds of motorists don't know the speed limit.

A number of other law enforcement agencies across the country have launched safe driving education campaigns aimed at combating an array of hazardous driving habits including impaired and distracted driving.