Speed traps and related phenomena

["C.M. Smith" <cmsmith@domain.elided>]

My philosophy on speeding is based on two principles:  speeding is not
dangerous per se, and dedicated cops are looking for exceptional driving
patterns, and I don't mean exceptionally good. These ideas dovetail neatly
with actual fact. Accidents are generally caused by exceptional events. If
you doubt this, try standing on the yellow line, as cops sometimes have to
do, and you won't be hurt. It is fantastical that we drive in opposite
directions at closing speeds of 120 mph and higher, passing within a few
feet of each other with statistically speaking, very little risk.
Particularly given the skill level displayed by the average driver.

In Alberta we issue "operator's licenses" not driver's licenses. This is
truth in government in action, since no one here has to prove they can
actually drive to get a license to steer a car around in public. If
applying for a license in say Germany, I am convinced most Alberta
"operators" would fail the test. We treat cars as a kind of appliance, like
a refrigerator, or a telephone (say, maybe that's why we get an operator's
license).

So, my modus operandi involves attracting as little attention to my driving
as possible, utilizing a radar detector to even the odds of not being
noticed, and never pissing off an officer of the law, if possible. They're
human as well and they're certain to remember the smart-ass that explained
to them just how wrong they were. And they'll be sure to make that extra
effort to show up at your trial!

Regrettable though this is, in North America speeding enforcement is used
as a shorthand method of detecting bad drivers (discounting the speed trap
towns etc, which do exist). I don't agree with this, but that's life.
Driving smoothly and unobtrusively is the best defence to detection. it
also happens to be the safest way to drive very fast on public roads.

And even in Canada, it's as well to remember that several of our finest
have been shot, and some killed, by very dangerous and wild types that
represent a hazard to us all, but were just driving along like the rest of
us before the cop stopped them. It's not pleasant, but it is sensible to
acknowledge these risks and behave appropriately even when unjustifiably
stopped by some enthusiastic officer. So, put yourself momentarily in the
officer's shoes when stopped by one. Look like the innocent law abiding
citizen you are, and accept the ticket with aplomb. Surprisingly, you will
get fewer tickets this way. Most police officers are genuinely concerned
about dangerous driving, not speeding.



Michael Smith
Calgary, Alberta
Canada
91 Alfa 164L, White, original owner 

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