EDUCATION IN TRAFFIC LAW
Warnings replace some tickets
Calgary traffic police are hoping a little roadside goodwill will put the brakes on the serious collisions that traditionally accompany the return of warmer weather.
For the next few weeks, members of the Calgary police traffic unit will hand out “warning tickets” in situations in which education, rather than a monetary fine, would prove more effective in correcting bad behaviour.
“The whole idea when we write a ticket or give a warning is to change driver behaviour,” said Insp. Ken Thrower, the city’s top traffic officer.
“Sometimes an enforcement ticket is the answer, or maybe it’s a warning, based on the circumstances.”
Traffic officers will still pull over motorists and issue tickets, but now have the option to “void” the charges and instead use the encounters to educate drivers on the error of their ways — as well as providing a more tangible takeaway than a verbal warning.
“I know for myself, whenever I get pulled over I get nervous — and I’ve been a cop for 40 years,” Thrower said.
“That piece of paper allows the officer to have a dialogue, and hopefully that motorist drives away thinking, ‘Yeah, I shouldn’t be multitasking in the car,’ or ‘I should’ve been paying attention.’ ”
For now, traffic officers are printing out real, valid tickets and writing the word “void” across those meant to serve as warnings, leaving intact details about the offence — including the fine.
While violations such as speeding or distracted driving still garner painful fines, officers can issue the voided tickets for minor infractions such as illegal U-turns, outdated vehicle registration or window tint — either on their own or on top of bona fide citations.
If the trial proves successful, plans are in the works to develop a citywide summer project for traffic officers, replacing voided tickets with some sort of formal warning slip that would include tips to improve driving habits and a means for motorists to provide their feedback.
“I want this to be an educational piece, but also on the positive side,” Thrower said.
He cautions this program doesn’t mean motorists should expect a pass every time they’re pulled over by Calgary’s finest.
“This isn’t replacing enforcement, it’s in addition to enforcement,” he said.
“The same officers who are writing these tickets are the ones who go to the fatal crashes. They’re the ones that see the devastation. I remember them all vividly — they’re etched in my mind forever.”
Thrower said he based the idea on similar programs in place during his days on the beat.
“Back when I was a traffic cop in ’82, we used to give out these warning tickets,” he said.
“We’d stop people and, depending on the situation, determine what would be the best piece of education.”
Thrower’s enthusiasm is shared by those tasked with keeping Calgary’s roads safe.
Sgt. David DenTandt said reaction to the initiative — from both police and the public — has been largely positive.
Out on routine patrol in northwest Calgary on Saturday morning, DenTandt pulled over a number of drivers for offences ranging from speeding to illegally tinted windows. Those given voided tickets were appreciative about getting a break on the fine and the lesson in safe driving habits.
“Initially, my guys were a little hesitant, as they weren’t sure how it would be received,” DenTandt said.
“But everyone’s come back saying motorists are definitely pleased. Even if they’re still getting a ticket or two, they’re grateful and always say thank you — and hopefully learned their lesson.”
The same officers who are writing these tickets are the ones who go to the fatal crashes.