(KAIR)--Increased enforcement is underway on Kansas roads, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Kansas Department of Transportation, the Drive To Zero Coalition, and law enforcement agencies across the state reminding drivers that "Speeding Wrecks Lives."

According to a release, increased safety messaging, highlighting that theme, will greet Kansas motorists, who can also expect increased enforcement of speeding laws, from now through August 11, 2024.

The release explains the reasoning behind the campaign, saying 79 people lost their lives in Kansas speed-related crashes in 2023, a reduction from 2022. However, the 2,085 people seriously injured last year in speed related Kansas crashes was an increase from 2022.

The release, urging drivers to be aware of their speed and follow posted speed limits, says the chance of death or serious injury doubles for every 10 mph over 50 mph, explaining that it takes about 221 feet to stop a vehicle traveling 50 mph. Increase the vehicle speed to 80 mph, and it takes about 460 feet to stop.

Speeding is a factor in almost one-third of all traffic fatalities nationwide.