Speeders, not slow drivers, are the problem

It's strange a libertarian like columnist Adam Sullivan, who normally sides with Republicans in wanting fewer laws and regulations, would seek more penalties for drivers 'caught” going too slow in the left lane ('Motorists beware of staying left,” Feb. 15).

How does he propose to catch them, since The Gazette recently reported our understaffed highway patrol is incapable of dealing the with a rash of super-speeders? Is he willing to raise taxes to fund more troopers to enforce our current laws, let alone his proposal?

I too think traffic flow is important. I consistently drive at, or slightly below, posted speed limits. In my long driving experience, it is not the occasional slow driver that threatens traffic flow, but the 'lead foots” who think they have the right to go at whatever speed they choose - often weaving in and out of that normal flow of traffic. Studies point to excess speed as the cause of accidents.

There's a remarkably easy system for dealing with most of the speeding scofflaws, that's speed cameras and higher penalties for speeding.

Jim Walters

Iowa City