Let the body count politics begin

I see the more things change, the more they stay the same. I read that our elected officials are going to convene a panel to study how to keep pedestrians from being killed when crossing the street.

Although this may make them feel like they are doing their civic duty, it will do nothing to make it safer to walk across any major thoroughfare. The law enforcement will say the crosswalk stings they do a few times a year is all they can do. The highway department will say they put up signs to warn drivers this is a walking town and "please stop for pedestrians." The public that ignores the crosswalk laws know that there is virtually no probability they will ever get a ticket for putting lives in jeopardy. Anyone who has had to face the terror of having to cross First Avenue, Cedar Street or Fifth Avenue will tell you that you are taking your life in your hands every time. This time, a simple walk to the store resulted in death.

There are only two approaches that are effective in reducing the risk. First and foremost, there must be an adequate deterrent affect for violating the crosswalk laws. We must demand ongoing, year-round daily police enforcement, regardless of the cost.

Second, we must limit, by law, the amount of places where crossing the street is legal and cite the violators at the same rate we cite the drivers. Raising the fines and posting the amount at intersections also is very effective.

To those who say that it is impossible or too costly to do these things, I say the future of the entire region's reputation as a safe and respectful place to live and raise a family is at stake. How high does the body county have to go before we get the message?

DANIEL MIMMACK

Sandpoint