According the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, speeding is a factor in one-third of all fatal crashes. Speed plays an important role in driving. People speed everyday for various reasons, whether it is from running late to reaching their destination on time or just for the thrill of speeding. Did you ever stop to think about the fact that speed reduces the amount of time to avoid a crash? In addition, speed increases the chance of crashing and increases the severity of a crash once it occurs. Another thought to consider before you get behind the wheel is you could not only injure yourself, but passengers in your vehicle, as well as people in another vehicle.

I'm really writing this letter in regards to Snydertown Road. I feel that this road is quite dangerous because of the driving conditions, including the speeding on this road. It seems every time I'm on this road, passenger or driver, there are many drivers who pass right on by. One problem about this road is there are rarely ever any state troopers patrolling. If people know there are no police around, they are more likely to speed. There have been many accidents on this road. I understand that not all accidents are caused by speeding alone -- weather, distractions and technical difficulties with vehicles are all major factors as well. I've personally lost three friends on Snydertown Road, all within six months of each other. My question is: If all of this is occurring, then why hasn't anything been done?

I propose there should be more state troopers patrolling Snydertown Road. I believe if state troopers were out on this road everyday, there would be a decrease in speeding, and even accidents. Even if this would only make a little difference, it would be worth it. Another suggestion would be to lower the speed limits, but this would not make a difference unless there were state troopers on patrol. I can not express how strongly I feel on this matter, especially after going through the loss of three friends within a short time. Something must be done.

Brianne Witmer,

Shikellamy High School