Many people still think reckless driving is a big problem in the city of Milwaukee. Every night on the news there is a story about some sort of car pursuit by the police, a vehicle crashing into a pole, another car or building or hit and run accident with people injured or killed. Now this is what gets me and I am sure this may have happened to you in the past. Have you ever been driving down the street and all of a sudden here comes a car driving very fast and maybe pasting you on the right. The car then goes down a block or so then pulls in and stops. You say to yourself all of that craziness just for a few blocks, wow. Wouldn’t it be better just to leave a little earlier to get there on time instead of rushing at the last minute? That is when mistakes are made, probably not on purpose, when you are running out of time.
Some of you probably remember the bad reckless driving accident downtown not long ago. The driver of the speeding vehicle was late, of all things, for jury duty at the courthouse. He was really pushing it, at a high rate of speed, running at least 5 red lights, before finally crashing into another vehicle. The crash was outside of the Wisconsin Club. A pastor from Grace Lutheran Church was killed in the crash while on the way to work. This reckless driving decision changed many lives. The pastor was married plus he had two small children. Of course, in addition, the church family lost their pastor. The driver had no record and plead guilty to homicide. He is facing at least 10 years in prison. Wisconsin law states that behavior matters but also the results of that behavior matters. The state law also implies it is only reckless driving if someone gets hurt or is killed.
Mayor Johnson states “reckless driving continues to be a top issue and priority for him”. The city has spent millions of dollars on redesigning the streets. Curb bump outs are making it harder to pass on the right side. Speed humps on some neighborhood streets are helping to slow the speed down. Chief Norman states the targeted approach of his cycle unit is working. “I feel good, feel like we are going in the right direction,” the Chief stated. Alderman Murphy, the former chair of the reckless driving taskforce, stated “some improvement, but we have a long ways to go”. Bob Donovan, in Madison, stated “some of these offenders need jail time”. He put forth two bills to address these issues. The first will double the fines and jail sentences. The second will make it easier for the police to take your vehicle. Mayor Johnson showed up to support both bills. They quickly passed both bills.
We appear to be on the right track trying to get a handle on the reckless driving in our community. Working together we will get it done.