THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, February 13, 1996 TAG: 9602130010
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
What is it about snow that renders normally intelligent adults into blithering idiots? Why does a parent who wouldn't dream of allowing his children to ride in a car without a car seat or seat belt, or ride a bike without a helmet, drive a car 30 mph while dragging the child on a sled or inner tube through the icy streets? A Suffolk teenager was seriously injured when his head hit the curb while riding in an inner tube behind a car.
After checking with our 4th Precinct, I learned that there have been a number of other injuries from such activities, including riders smashing their heads into mailbox posts, curbs and trees.
Does a child in our neighborhood have to be killed or maimed for life before these adults and young adults come to their senses?
How can we protect our neighborhood children from the stupidity of their parents or elder siblings? Police officials at the 4th Precinct confirmed that there is no specific statute on the books to cover this activity but that the drivers have been charged with ``general reckless driving.'' (That does not seem harsh enough. How about ``reckless endangerment'' or ``endangering the helath and welfare of a minor''?)
The police suggested that residents who observe this irresponsible activity should call the police nonemergency number and report the fun-seekers. I intend to take their advice. Parents and young adults of driving age should use their heads before they lose a child.
JO KRANTZ, president
Bellamy Woods Civic League
Virginia Beach, Feb. 6, 1996 by CNB