Dangerous S-curve needs effective enforcement

Highways are designed and constructed to provide efficient, safe transport of goods, services, and personnel for all types and capabilities of vehicles. Regulations for the use of these facilities have been developed to ensure the users are operating safely within the design limits of the highways. The problem is that not everyone recognizes the need for adherence to these regulations and are willing to put themselves and fellow travelers in danger. Due to these careless individuals, enforcement is required to protect the public.

Technology improvements in both vehicles and highway design have resulted in a rapid increase in traffic volume, thereby increasing the need for enforcement. More of the same old methods of enforcement are impractical, ineffective, and costly. Since technology has driven the need for increased enforcement, it should be applied to the detection and prosecution of serious offenders. Currently this means continued use of traffic cameras and law changes for increasing and rapid collection of fines of a magnitude to discourage infractions (speeds of 100mph = +$1000 fine).

Statistics from the current cameras indicate that the volume and magnitude of the violations on the 'S' curve make that a very dangerous highway and it should be closed, unless effective enforcement changes are made.

John Roltgen

Cedar Rapids