Just don't break the speed limit

As I initially started reading Daniel Mimmack's letter about the Ponderay Police speed traps I thought he was kidding, then I realized he was serious. OK, Daniel, here's the deal, if you exceed the speed limit you are breaking the law. It doesn't matter if the police are parked there or not, you are still breaking the law. Whew, now that we're clear on that, I'd like to address a couple points in Daniel's letter. We've all experienced this, we're driving merrily along and we see the law enforcement vehicle parked "hidden" by the side of the road. There's that instant where we glance at the speedometer, hurriedly look in the rearview mirror, and simultaneously try to remember the speed limit. Then … relief or panic. Sometimes when I see them and I know I'm in the clear, I wave.

Daniel, your suggestion of patrolling is impractical. First, it is a waste of gas. Second, it's unsafe to have a patrol car make a high-speed U-turn to follow a speeding driver.

Finally Daniel, your implication that the public doesn't trust the police force for doing their job is a completely inaccurate portrayal. Personally my trust in all law enforcement would wane if they embraced your misguided idea of backing off. I'm wondering where you think this idea should stop …

Bottom line, don't break the law and you won't get caught.

DEBBY TRINEN

Sandpoint