Autumn Awareness: Officers Maintain Focus on Roadway Safety Through October

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Fairfax County, VA – As we approach the end of 2025, the Fairfax County Police Department remains committed to reducing crashes and improving roadway safety for everyone who lives, works, and travels in our community.

Throughout October, officers are participating in several state and national campaigns focused on protecting pedestrians, teen drivers, and school children while maintaining strong enforcement to deter distracted and reckless driving.

Road Shark: Wave 5

The final wave of the Road Shark Traffic Safety Campaign is underway through October 19. This joint effort between the Fairfax County Police Department and Virginia State Police targets driving behaviors most often linked to serious crashes, including speeding, aggressive driving, and distracted driving.

A Special Enforcement Day on Thursday, October 16, will focus on distracted-driving violations countywide. Residents and visitors can expect to see increased patrols and the use of radar boards and message signs reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert.

Although this marks the final scheduled wave of Road Shark for 2025, officers will continue enhanced enforcement and education efforts through the end of the year to promote safer roads across Fairfax County.

Recent Enforcement Efforts:

National Teen Driver Safety Week

From October 19–25, officers will participate in National Teen Driver Safety Week, a national campaign focused on preventing crashes among young and inexperienced drivers. The effort emphasizes seatbelt use, distraction-free driving, and responsible habits modeled by parents and guardians.

School Bus Safety Week

October 20–24 serves as School Bus Safety Week, reminding drivers that Virginia law requires all motorists to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop sign, regardless of direction. Drivers must remain stopped until all passengers are safely off the roadway and the bus moves again.

Recent Enforcement Efforts:

Seatbelt Law Update

Beginning July 1, 2025, all occupants in a moving vehicle, regardless of age or seating position, must wear a seatbelt on public roadways in Virginia. The law strengthens existing safety requirements and underscores the importance of this lifesaving practice.

Commitment to Safer Roads

Traffic safety remains one of the department’s top public safety priorities. As we close out 2025, officers will continue proactive enforcement, education, and outreach to reduce crashes and protect every member of our community.

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