New Traffic Safety Measures in Memphis
The Memphis Police Department is launching new initiatives to combat dangerous behavior on the roads. A key element will be the introduction of a permanent night shift, aimed at reducing the number of accidents and detaining negligent drivers.
Response to Data and Public Dissatisfaction
MPD Traffic Division Commander Colonel Willie Mathena explained that the decision to create the new shift is based on data analysis and appeals from city residents. He noted:
We study the data. We listen to the citizens of Memphis. And based on this data, we decided that we need to create a day shift to focus on traffic control to make our streets safer.
This means increased patrols during the dark hours when speeding, distracted driving, and street racing peak.
Patrolling Problem Areas
Colonel Mathena emphasized that the police will focus not only on racing or speeding but also on identifying distracted drivers, those driving under the influence, and the use of counterfeit temporary license plates. He noted that officers sometimes discover that such plates are fake or purchased online.
The department has already identified problematic areas of the city. High-accident zones include Winchester and Riverdale, Shelby and Airways, as well as the Poplar Avenue corridor. Officers will actively patrol these areas during peak accident hours to reduce the number of traffic accidents and ensure the safety of night commuters.
Joint Operations with Law Enforcement Agencies
In addition to daily patrols, the city is also conducting special timed operations. On September 19, Memphis Police, in conjunction with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, conducted an operation to combat dangerous driving. The joint action resulted in 200 citations, several vehicle confiscations, and one arrest for a felony. Similar measures are expected to continue, especially considering the future involvement of the National Guard.
Based on personal observations, many drivers in Memphis are prone to speeding, and police presence on the roads is insufficient. The streets mentioned above are traditionally areas of increased danger, so the new measures have the potential to significantly improve the safety situation.
The implementation of night patrols is part of a larger trend in American cities where local authorities are intensifying the fight against traffic violations. The effectiveness of such initiatives often depends not only on the number of patrols but also on a systemic approach, including public education and infrastructure improvements. The success of the program in Memphis could serve as an example for other cities facing similar problems.