The following is a release from the Washington State Patrol:

Target Enforcement Areas (TEA) were developed by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) to specifically locate 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 can then dedicate more time for extra patrols in those specific areas with the ultimate goal of reducing serious injury and fatal collisions.

“We are adjusting our patrol techniques by specifically targeting those areas where we know drivers are most likely to be injured in a motor vehicle collision,” WSP Capt. Randy Drake said. “Through education, enforcement and constant law enforcement presence we hope to decrease the number of fatality and injury collisions on King County area Interstates and State Routes.”

WSP analysts studied the prior five years of collision data, traffic stops and 911 emergency calls to determine the location of Target Enforcement Areas (TEA). Troopers record all traffic stops and time spent patrolling in TEAs so that we can analyze the impact we are having on the problem areas in King County.

TEAs are not only separated geographically but also by time. TEAs 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.

Education and enforcement in TEAs are an important component to the agencies goal of Target Zero.