State Patrol: Target enforcement area proves successful for 2014

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) saw a significant reduction in fatality collisions in identified Target Enforcement Areas during 2014. Target Enforcement Areas are specific zones in King County that are considered to have a higher probability of collisions based on historical data.

March 20, 2015 2:02 pm
The Washington State Patrol released results of its 2014 Target Enforcement Areas.
The Washington State Patrol released results of its 2014 Target Enforcement Areas.

The following is a release from the Washington State Patrol:

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) saw a significant reduction in fatality collisions in identified Target Enforcement Areas during 2014. Target Enforcement Areas are specific zones in King County that are considered to have a higher probability of collisions based on historical data.

This information is mapped and forwarded to troopers who dedicate more time for extra patrols in those specific areas, with the ultimate goal of reducing serious injury and fatal collisions. While targeting areas that have historically had higher issues of collisions, Target Enforcement Areas also allows for more efficient and effective patrolling, enforcement and emergency response.

Preliminary data show that the extra patrols in Target Enforcement Areas are making a difference in the safety of motorists in King County. Below are examples of how Target Enforcement Areas is having an effect in King County.

2013: Ten of 15 interstate fatality collisions occurred in identified Target Enforcement Areas.

2014: Only one of four, interstate fatality collisions occurred in the same identified Target Enforcement Areas.

“The results are encouraging,” said Cpt. Randy Drake stated. “The increased presence of our troopers in these Target Enforcement Areas appears to be having a significant impact on highway safety.”

There were also seven DUI-related fatalities in 2013 compared to just one in 2014. Speed related fatalities were also reduced.

WSP analysts studied the prior five years of collision data, and 911 emergency calls reporting erratically driven vehicles to determine the location of Target Enforcement Areas. Troopers record all traffic stops and time spent patrolling in Target Enforcement Areas; the WSP can analyze that information to evaluate the impact of these patrols in King County.

Target Enforcement Areas are not only separated geographically but also by time. Target Enforcement Areas are designated by hour of day and season of the year, so that troopers can have the most accurate information possible to assist them in directing their patrols.

The use of Target Enforcement Areas is an important component to the WSP’s goal of Target Zero; having no traffic collision fatalities by 2030.