Traffic Safety Thursday: Enough is Enough

The Valley Today

In this episode of the Valley Today, hosted by Janet Michael, Traffic Safety Thursday features a detailed conversation with Lieutenant Warren Gosnell from the Frederick County Sheriff's Office. The discussion begins with a lighthearted correction on broadcasting terms, clarifying that while they were live in the studio, the broadcast is not being aired live.

The podcast covers several key issues related to traffic safety, focusing heavily on the importance of responsible driving behaviors and recent traffic incidents in the region. The dialogue starts with Lieutenant Gosnell addressing misconceptions about laws requiring the use of headlights when windshield wipers are in use, emphasizing that safety—rather than avoiding getting wet—is the priority for law enforcement.

Lieutenant Gosnell also discusses the controversy surrounding the use of emergency flashers during heavy rain and argues for their utility in increasing visibility. This segment highlights the balance between legal requirements and practical safety considerations, aiming to inform listeners about the nuances of these regulations.

The discussion then shifts to a pressing topic: aggressive driving and its dangerous consequences. Gosnell shares alarming statistics from Frederick County, including a recent spike in traffic fatalities. The conversation underlines the importance of attentive and defensive driving, criticizing behaviors such as tailgating, brake-checking, and distracted driving. Gosnell explains that while enforcement of these laws is often met with complaints, the primary goal is public safety.

Gosnell emphasizes that aggressive driving can lead to severe accidents and that recent trends show an unsettling rise in traffic-related fatalities. He mentions that the Sheriff's office will be ramping up efforts to curb these behaviors, with a zero-tolerance approach for egregious violations.

The episode closes with a focus on school zone safety and the importance of adhering to speed limits and stopping for school buses. Gosnell shares insights on the challenges faced by law enforcement in these areas and stresses the community's role in ensuring the safety of school children.