WAUSAU — The Wisconsin State Patrol plans to use aircraft and ground-based officers to enforce speed limits and other traffic laws along Interstate-39 in Marathon County on Sunday, June 10, to enhance safety for all travelers.
Another State Patrol aerial enforcement mission is planned for Monday, June 18, along Highway 10 in Portage County. Aerial enforcement patrols are often posted on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Facebook and Twitter sites.
“We publicly announce many of these enforcement efforts because our goal is not to simply stop and cite motorists, but to encourage voluntary compliance with traffic laws at all times,” said Captain Adrian Logan with the State Patrol’s Wausau Post in a news release. “With another busy travel season underway, we want everyone to reach their destinations safely. This requires all motorists to watch their speed, be patient and alert every time they get behind the wheel.”
Most State Patrol aerial missions are made possible through federal money specifically designated to support traffic law enforcement. The State Patrol analyzes data on traffic citations, crash reports and related information to identify specific highway corridors for enforcement initiatives.
Specially-equipped State Patrol aircraft use highway markings and a timing device known as VASCAR to determine vehicle speeds. When pilots detect speeders, aggressive or reckless drivers, they contact ground-based units to initiate a traffic stop.
