Dear Editor:
Re: Police wrong to OK warnings, Editor's Letter, Burnaby NOW, Jan. 25.
As drivers with legitimate licenses are required to pass testing that ensures they know the rules of the road, I find it very irresponsible that local radio stations, "tweeters" or anyone else sends out locations of distracted driving, speed or impaired driving checks.
Those who engage in such risky behaviours know they shouldn't be doing so and a point or monetary penalty is well warranted to keep our roads as safe as possible for all. It is often an innocent person who is hurt, or dies, as a result of others driving irresponsibly. Media and individuals who send out information about distracted or other dangerous driving check locations should consider if they would warn someone about to rob a bank that there is a police presence in the area so they might get caught, someone about to break into homes that there is an active Block Watch and they might get caught.
The consequences of distracted driving, driving without a seatbelt, at excessive speeds or while impaired put drivers, passengers and others at risk for not only property damage and possibly loss but also personal injury and possible loss of life. So, if you are with media and putting out warnings about police check locations, consider doing the more responsible thing, i.e. messages about safe driving practices and the consequences of unsafe driving.
To the media folks, "tweeters" and others who are sending out warnings about police traffic safety check locations: please, when you hear of a traffic accident that has been attributed to speed, lack of a seat belt, distracted driving such as use of a handheld phone, an impaired driver, or a combination of the above, ask yourself "Did I do my part in preventing such an accident and the impact it is having on those involved?"
If folks aren't doing anything wrong, they don't need any sort of heads up that they may be driving toward a location where police are holding folks such as them accountable if they are operating their motor vehicle in a way that puts them and others at risk.
Diane Gillis, Burnaby
