The Editor, Sir:

I quite identify with the concerns raised by Donovan Jackson in the letter published yesterday about speed traps along the North Coast Highway. Some time ago, I wrote a letter to The Gleaner, which was published, calling for a speed transition speed zone on our highways. I was caught speeding on the North Coast Highway leaving the Queens highway and going towards the bauxite pier at Discovery pier.

I was accused by the police of speeding - going 70km in a 50 km zone. I had just passed a 50km sign and by the time I was to apply some brakes, they were out there stopping me and charging me for going 70km in a 50km zone. I was quite infuriated because I was driving all the way from Montego Bay and was not involved in any speeding. Quite frankly, the most I had travelled that morning was about 85km per hour! I was taking what I considered an easy, leisurely, safe drive home. I ended up paying $5,000 for the ticket and, believe me, I have never felt more cheated out of my money than then.

Transition speed zone

It is necessary to have a transition speed zone between 80-50km that will allow drivers to decelerate safely and smoothly once they realise they have entered a 50km zone. Once motorists are below 80km in that zone, then they should not be charged with speeding. When the transition zone has been passed, the police can then set up their speed traps.

What I find the police do, is cleverly set their speed traps in some safe 50km zones and catch many a unsuspecting motorists. These are obviously 'feeding tree' zones that allow the police to extract revenue from motorists. In most of these feeding-tree areas, one wonders why these areas are 50km, as it is very safe to travel 70km! I speak in particular of spots like approaching the Cool Oasis gas station in Drax Hall. That is an undeveloped/bush area with a long, clear stretch of roadway. It is a favourite of the cops and they are always snaring motorists there. Another is the stretch approaching Discovery Bay from Green Grotto Caves end. Yet another spot is the stretch of road leaving Duncans and heading towards Spring Hill. These are all favourite speed-trap areas for the police, yet they are quite safe to travel 70km.

Amused and disgusted

I am a frequent user of the North Coast Highway and I am sometimes amused, and at times disgusted, by the police's approach. I now know where all the speed zones are so I can prepare to decelerate, knowing a 50km zone is approaching.

I'm often reminded by persons with whom I converse that the police's objective is to gain revenue for the Government, so they will continue to do what they are doing.

Jackson's suggestion for a series of speed-limit signs is very good and if implemented, would make for more informed drivers, and safer driving. Yet I do not think it will happen as it would decrease the revenue obtained from the speed tickets. My suggestion for a transition speed zone has not been implemented.

I am, etc.,

HOWARD STONE

showard84@yahoo.com