Distracted drivers need to thank officers for tickets

What's worse, a $62 ticket or running over and possibly killing someone?

The Sandpoint Police Department feels it is important enough for motorists to pay attention that it has started a four-month crosswalk patrol program.

It isn't popular.

In fact, most of the latte-sipping, cell-phone yakking, otherwise distracted drivers who get cited are peeved. Some were so mad last year they went to court and fought the tickets.

Here's what happens. First of all the SPD announces where they will be for the emphasis patrol. Secondly, signs are placed before the crosswalks to alert motorists an emphasis patrol is under way.

If that isn't enough, orange cones mark a safe stopping distance before the crosswalk. An officer in a marked car will be nearby to video all of the action.

Still, with all of this hubbub, motorists will still speed in front of pedestrians.

Should these people be cited? You bet.

Should these people even be driving? Probably not. Are you willing to risk your life because of bad drivers? It happens all of the time on Sandpoint streets.

We salute the SPD for continuing to attempt to keep pedestrians safe in a so-called pedestrian friendly town.

For distracted drivers … instead of complaining about your upcoming tickets, why not thank the officer?

A ticket is a small price to pay versus running over someone. Wouldn't you agree?

David Keyes is publisher of the Daily Bee.