For a number of years I had the opportunity to live in San Francisco, New York and Detroit areas of the country that have earned an undeserved reputation for discourteous and aggressive driving. I love Utah, and it pains me to acknowledge that we have one of the highest rates of road fatalities in the country, most notably auto-pedestrian fatalities. It is easy to attribute these senseless deaths to the I-15 reconstruction project, but the cold reality is that we, the drivers, are the ones responsible for this disturbing and foolish carnage.
For a populace that boasts high regard for citizenship and the rule of law, it is disappointing to witness the glaring disregard for both on our roads. It is difficult, if not impossible, for anyone to stay within the posted speed limits without being "out of sync" with the flow of traffic. It seems that most everyone here feels the need to zig-zag from lane to lane and drive at least 10 miles over the posted speed limits at all times. Regretfully, it isn't just a few reckless drivers, but a majority of them. Notice how many tailgate in obvious exasperation over the "slowness" of those who are already driving at top speed. Having made their annoyance known, they proceed to pass the lawful drivers at high speed, placing everyone at jeopardy.Because I teach my children to obey the law, and because I hope to deserve a certain degree of divine protection, I try to do my part and stay within the legal speed limits. I hope that those who deliberately break the law will search their conscience and come to the realization that it is them, and not the I-15 reconstruction project, that are endangering lives and causing unnecessary deaths. As we approach the winter season and slippery roads, please consider the precious cargo that you and I transport in our vehicles -- our loved ones. Slow down and live.
John Kemeny
Kaysville