Last week, an Arlington Police Department Traffic Unit officer pulled over a driver bolting down the highway at a jaw-dropping 103 MPH, a speed at which the margin for error is virtually nonexistent. This instance was not just about one driver's recklessness; it showcased a widespread disregard for the safety on our roads—a concern that the department is determined to address. In a social media announcement, the Arlington PD emphasized that such speeds gravely endanger everyone on the road, not just the speedsters themselves.
In an effort to proactively tackle this issue, the Traffic Unit has announced its enforcement schedule, with patrols set out today on Division St., tonight on I-20, and continuing Saturday night across I-20, I-30, and SH360, as detailed in a post from the Arlington Police Department's official Facebook page. By broadcasting these locations, the department aims to educate and raise awareness, rather than to stealthily catch violators off guard. They believe that the posts serve as a preventative measure, reminding drivers to adhere to the rules of the road and to drive responsibly.
In response to the skepticism about the effectiveness of publicizing enforcement locations, Arlington PD maintains a pragmatic stance. The force counters the argument with an assertion that those who engage in high-risk behaviors aren't likely to check the department's social media updates before hitting the gas pedal or racing through traffic. However, their updates do reach the segment of the population who value road safety and could benefit from occasional reminders. And if the warnings deter just one person from driving dangerously, the department considers it "mission accomplished."
