Governor: Arizona must curb wrong-way driving

PHOENIX (AP) - Gov. Doug Ducey is reacting to the latest fatal wrong-way crash on a Phoenix freeway by ordering state agencies to take steps that include expediting the deployment of new technology aimed at curbing the problem.

Ducey says the Tuesday evening wreck that killed two drivers and injured a third was a tragedy that warrants immediate state action on every available front.

The governor says he wants all Arizonans to take the problem seriously and state and local law enforcement agencies to increase enforcement and public awareness.

Arizona Department of Transportation officials said recently that they planned this fall to deploy a pilot project for a wrong-way detection system using thermal camera technology to alert wrong-way drivers, other drivers and law enforcement.

Ducey says he wants that timetable advanced and scope of deployment broadened.

Gov. Ducey's statement:

"As we pray for the two individuals killed last night on State Route 51, and for their families, the state must also take action to more seriously address the issue of wrong-way driving.

Following last night's accident, I have instructed the Department of Transportation, the Department of Public Safety, and my Office of Highway Safety to convene immediately and increase efforts to mitigate and prevent this public safety issue.

I have specifically ordered that the planned launch of thermal camera detection technology be expedited. I want those cameras implemented as quickly as possible, and expanded to as many areas as possible where they may make a difference and save a life. We also need to take some immediate actions to increase enforcement and public awareness. All of this needs to be done in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.

I want all Arizonans to know the state takes this issue extremely seriously. Our goal is to reduce fatalities and save lives, and we will take every appropriate measure in order to do so."