Notes to Strangers (#3)
Some thoughts to those two drivers who, fortunately, did not cause accident or injury to emergency personnel, but could have....
I was standing on the corner of Milwaukee Street and Parker Drive to cross Milwaukee. Sirens in the distance were getting closer and soon a fire truck rounded the curve at the top of the hill. Siren wailing an horn blowing, I watched as the truck continued to follow an SUV who simply did not move out of the way. As they neared me, I could clearly make out the driver ON THEIR CELL PHONE, apparently completely unaware an emergency vehicle was behind. (Surely they would have known to pull over and yield the right of way if they had noticed the blaring siren, flashing lights and horn, wouldn’t they?)
As the fire truck switched lanes to bypass our cell phone driver … another vehicle pulled from a parking stall DIRECTLY INTO THE PATH of the fire truck, which had to brake in order to avoid hitting this driver, who quickly accelerated in front of the truck. (Apparently there was somewhere that driver needed to be that could not have waited another ten seconds.)
You’re right - I have no idea why I was so surprised. I’ve followed countless folks on cell phones who’s speed varies 10-20mph as they chat. I’ve seen the lipstick being applied, using the rear view mirror for its obvious intent. I’ve heard (clearly) the pounding music from a car a block away and wonder how they could possibly hear an emergency siren. We’ve all seen bad driving habits and truthfully, a lot of us make poor decisions behind the wheel at one time or another. But shouldn’t the blaring horn and siren of an emergency vehicle snap everyone back to the reality that driving is serious business?
These first responders often risk life and limb to help others. They certainly should not be endangered or ignored on their way to such a selfless task.
I’m not going to suggest a debate over all the distractions drivers subject themselves to. But common courtesy and a sense for one’s surroundings in the name of safety -- is that really too much to ask?
May 9, 2008 at 7:15 p.m.
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janesvillefirst: great idea about posting license numbers of bad/discourteous driving incidents. I would suggest the whole license number and the date/time/location of the incident.
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It shouldn't be a libel problem for WCLO because no names would be available and anybody could be driving the identified car - but Mom and Dad would know it was. People would need to be aware that mistakes can be made taking down license numbers - maybe a brief description of the car would be a good idea, like janesvillefirst suggested.
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But be safe when writing down the info to post it later. Don't write it down and drive at the same time.
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Might as well start it on this blog. Where's my little clipboard.
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Hopefully WCLO won't put the kibosh on it. Maybe Tim never reads his blogs.
Apr 28, 2008 at 7:51 a.m.
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I have also seen this a number of times, both not yeilding to emergency vehicles and people talking on cell phones while rolling through red lights. I know you probably wouldn't allow posting full license numbers and car descriptions, but how bout particial numbers and/or car descriptions? Maybe there are some insurance agents, mommies and daddies in town that might take notice?
Apr 26, 2008 at 12:45 p.m.
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i live in janesville and work in jefferson. i would have to say atleast 1 out of three poeple i pass on the road is talking on their cell phone- what is so darn important you have to risk our lives and yours to CHIT CHAT bs on the phone. I have hands free in my car which helps but i still amke it brief cause you dont have full attention even if hands free.
yes the funeral procession cut ins and passes are just stupid. during my uncles a lady cut into the line to drive down milton av. JUST WAIT like yoiur suposed too.
I swear most people need a refresher class in drivers ed.
I have always mentioned you should have to pass a test every year to still drive
Apr 26, 2008 at 5:41 a.m.
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This - and the folks who don't stop for funeral processions are two of my pet peeves -- for goodness sake, show some respect & safety!
Apr 24, 2008 at 6:32 p.m.
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Tim, I truly enjoy your "Notes to Strangers"..I also, have witnessed countless people who do not pull over for emergency vehicles..and, the use of cell phones in cars is getting to be an extreme hazzard!!! In the last week, I have seen 3 drivers run stop signs while on cell phones....It's got to stop..
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