Expect More Speed Enforcement on I-20 and Toll 49

(Smith County, Texas) Beginning Saturday, drivers can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence in Smith County along I-20 and Toll 49.

Operation Slow Down Ramps Up This Weekend

The Smith County Sheriff's Office and TxDOT have partnered to bring awareness to Operation Slow Down. Operation Slow Down aims to make East Texas roads safer by encouraging drivers to pay closer attention to their speed. Beginning Saturday, July 18, Smith County Deputies will conduct increased traffic enforcement patrols on Interstate 20 in Smith County and along Toll 49. The program will continue through Monday, August 3.

Get our free mobile app

Why Speeding Remains So Dangerous

Posted speed limits along I-20 and Toll 49 can reach as high as 75 miles per hour. If you've driven any stretch of either of those roads, you know that drivers go faster than the posted speed limit. In the event of a crash at that speed, serious injury or death is a strong possibility. Drivers are urged to monitor their speed and adjust their driving to road and weather conditions.

Smith County Deputies will be monitoring stretches of both roads for those who are driving above the speed limit or below the posted minimum speed. Segments of Toll 49 have a minimum speed of 60 or 65 miles per hour. Deputies will also be watching for aggressive driving. The program is aimed at making all Texas roads safer.

READ MORE --> The Driving Habits That Frustrate East Texans The Most

In 2025, TxDOT reported 1,247 deaths on Texas roads that were linked to speed-related crashes. TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams tells KETK,

"Excessive speed makes any crash more dangerous. Higher speeds mean less time to react and a much greater risk of serious injury or death. We’re asking Texans to slow down and drive with care."

TxDOT Safety Tips for Drivers

• Driving at a speed appropriate for traffic, weather, and road conditions.
• Leaving extra following distance, especially during heavy traffic or on wet roads.
• Watching for changing speed limits, particularly in construction zones and school zones.
• Remembering that speeding fines are doubled in active work zones and school zones.
• Buckling up every trip, whether you’re the driver or a passenger.

Slow Down and Stay Safe in Smith County

Slow down to the posted speed limit, not only on I-20 or Toll 49, but on city streets as well. Texas is losing too many precious lives due to crashes involving speed. Driving too fast not only makes it harder to stop to avoid a crash, but it also increases the chances that a collision at high speed could result in severe injuries or fatalities.