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Speak Out
Minding school zone safety is essential
This morning the traffic seemed even crazier than usual as I pedaled my bike to work past Sunnyvale Middle School. It's always an ordeal, with cars zipping every which way as parents try to shave a few seconds off of the time it takes them to drop off their kids and drive away. But this morning was worse, and as I got closer I saw the reason--a small, motionless body lying in the street, covered in blankets and surrounded by frantic adults. I said a silent prayer as I passed, hoping the situation wasn't as bad as it looked.
A few years ago, I participated in a study session held by the Sunnyvale City Council to discuss safety issues caused by the worsening traffic problems around schools. Everyone agreed on the dangers, but the police were too busy to deal with the daily traffic mess and the school administrators couldn't take responsibility. In the end, all of the authorities showed dutiful concern, but concluded that nothing could be done. And I guess they were right, because as far as I can tell nothing has been done.
I didn't see what happened this morning, so I can't say who's directly responsible for this particular incident. For all I know it may have been the child's fault; after all, kids just can't help being careless sometimes--that's why drivers are supposed to be especially careful around schools. But I can only say this to all of you who insist on driving as if saving every possible second is a matter of life and death: sooner or later, you'll probably be proven right.
Kevin Jackson
Sunnyvale
Correction
Last week The Sun incorrectly listed the number for the El Camino Hospital volunteer hotline. The correct number is 650.940.7214.
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Sunnyvale, California Since 1994
