“Finally! Berkeley does something that makes sense.
Having the police enforce automobile regulations was the worst thing ever to happen to LE.
Before automobiles, unless you were in the middle of committing an actual crime, you would be happy to see a police officer - they would be there to serve and protect YOU.
Now, everyone feels slight dread at the sight of a cop. Are my turn signals working? Are my inspection stickers up to date? Did I come to a full stop?
And the speeding thing is ridiculous - everyone goes over the speed limit. Having cops driving around scrutinizing your driving is not that much different than having cops walking in to your home to check if your insurance is up to date or if you are violating any ordinances or building codes. Or maybe they would want to check if your kids are getting the proper nutrition.
Even small children pick up on it when they see their parents bristle at the sight of a cop.
I’m 68 and I have NEVER had the cops protect be from anything - every interaction has been them hassling me over something petty.
It’s too bad, because if not for the fact that 99% of people’s exposure to cops is to traffic cops, people would have a lot more respect for police, and they would even be glad to see them.”
I’m glad I’m not the only one who sees it like this. Thank you for sharing my thoughts too. They’ve become tax collectors with traffic stops and it’s a shame.
I got pulled over once for a tail light out that I didn’t know about and thought I’d be respectful by opening my door since my window wasn’t working, the guy threatened me. I couldn’t freaking believe that he would threaten me for something to me that was so innocent. I haven’t respected them since. Thanks Fairfax County PD.
I have been known to call them tax collectors through my driver side window. Needless to say, if I am pulled over I get a ticket EVERY time. I went to court three times for seatbelt violations. I fought every time, using logic and the “not governments job” to keep me belted in. I have never been caught riding without a helmet yet, of course most of my riding is not on city streets or hiways.