Letter to the Editor for Tuesday — June 01, 2004

• Traffic opinion

Traffic opinion

In regards to the “Traffic Danger Issue” article on Wednesday, May 19, by Jimmy Jones, I must agree with a part that Mr. Jones said. Locals and tourists don’t follow the speed limit. It is sad to see lives have been taken away so tragically. Only after the fact that something happens, teenagers know what to do. Create a shrine for the deceased, scatter leis into the ocean, and write the person’s name on their vehicles. Why is it that when their peers pass away, they quick to forget speed was a factor that killed their friend! They are seen speeding, burning rubber and acting stupid on the roads! When will they realize speed kills! They feel inferior and it will never happen to them! The police needs to take charge. Get onto the roadways and issue citations to people speeding, driving drunk, not wearing a seat belt, etc. Don’t issue seat belt citations just because the police have grant monies available for the click it or ticket campaign. Heavily enforce seat belt usage 365 days a year! I noticed when I drive at night; I don’t see a police car cruising the roads, looking for violations. When I do see a police car, it is always on the side of the road, they are talking stories with their fellow police officers or they are sleeping somewhere. They should take their jobs seriously. They are here to protect and provide service to the entire Island of Kauai, so do it! Go and look for juveniles driving after the curfew hour and arrest them for curfew violations. Look for people not wearing their seat belts. Look for speeders. The police department should start doing their job! Parents need to take action also! Know where your child/children are at all times! I hope this letter will open Police Chief Lum’s Eye and reshape the police department! Sincerely,

D.C. Lee

Lihu‘e