The outcry over the 100-year-old driver who was let go with a warning after being caught speeding in a school zone could be a harbinger of things to come.
The original story noted that the police officer who pulled the centenarian over made a decision not to tarnish the driver’s perfect record.
That decision was met by outrage from a number of readers, the majority of them upset by what they perceived as favouritism.
Just because the man had lived to a remarkable age, doesn’t mean he should be allowed to get away with speeding – and especially not in a school zone.
Very few British Columbians are still able to earn the privilege of having a drivers licence at the age of 100. Only 15 people in the province who have made it to the century mark are currently licensed, according to ICBC.
“Reverse ageism” was one of the phrases used by people who suggested a younger driver would have been ticketed.
However, if we look at what’s known about the specifics of this incident, it’s our view that the officer did the right thing.
The man was clearly not a bad driver — he had recently had his licence renewed for another five years.
He also had the aforementioned spotless record, which at the very least indicates he wasn’t someone who took chances on the road.
It’s also worth noting that the day the man was pulled over in the school zone was a day when teachers were on a much publicized strike.
And while the lower speed limit was still in effect, it’s at least arguable about whether there was a “reasonable expectation” that school kids would be in the area.
Police officers use their judgement almost every time they engage someone while on the job. Part of their duty is to ascertain when they need to use the full force of their authority.
Often times, warnings are an effective way of ensuring the public is safe.
The case of the centenarian caught speeding in a Saanich school zone is one of them.
