In recent days, the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office in northwest Kansas has been compelled to address a concerning rise in excessive speeding violations.
Sheriff Wachendorfer has issued multiple tickets to drivers exceeding speed limits by significant margins, prompting a public plea for enhanced road safety and adherence to posted speed limits.
Recent Speeding Incidents
On Saturday, two separate incidents occurred on U.S. Highway 83, a 65 mph zone:
- First Incident: A driver was clocked at 93 mph, 28 mph over the speed limit.
- Second Incident: Another driver was recorded at 102 mph, 37 mph over the speed limit.
Additionally, earlier in the week, a deputy observed a vehicle traveling at 111 mph in a 65 mph zone south of Oberlin, leading to another citation.
Sheriff’s Concerns and Warnings
Sheriff Wachendorfer expressed deep concern over these incidents, highlighting the dangers of high-speed driving on rural two-lane highways characterized by rolling hills, curves, and frequent cross traffic.
He emphasized that such speeds, especially near agricultural machinery entering the roadway, pose significant risks to all road users.
Public Safety Message
In his public address, Sheriff Wachendorfer urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits, stating:
“PLEASE SLOW DOWN!!! YOU ARE NOT ON THE AUTOBAHN. Driving 90’s and 100’s+ on our local highways will get you nothing but a ride in an ambulance or blue lights in your rearview mirror.”
He further noted that local judges, who are also residents and road users, would not look favorably upon such violations.
Recent Speeding Violations
| Date | Location | Speed Limit | Recorded Speed | Excess Over Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday | U.S. Highway 83 | 65 mph | 93 mph | 28 mph |
| Saturday | U.S. Highway 83 | 65 mph | 102 mph | 37 mph |
| Earlier This Week | South of Oberlin | 65 mph | 111 mph | 46 mph |
Recommendations for Drivers
To ensure safety and compliance with traffic laws, drivers are advised to:
- Adhere to Posted Speed Limits: Always observe and comply with speed limits, especially in rural and residential areas.
- Stay Vigilant: Be mindful of road conditions, including curves, hills, and potential cross traffic.
- Exercise Patience: Avoid aggressive driving behaviors and allow ample time for travel.
- Be Aware of Enforcement: Understand that local law enforcement is actively monitoring speeds and will enforce traffic laws to ensure public safety.
The recent excessive speeding incidents in Decatur County serve as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic regulations.
Sheriff Wachendorfer’s call for drivers to slow down is a crucial step toward preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of all road users in the community.