I’m the kid of a cop.
That kind of went to my head a few times in my youth. My friends and I have had a good time pretending to pull our friends over with dad’s dash master a few times. Shhhhh. I’m not sure about the statute of limitations on something like that.
In my career as an advocate, there are many stories where law enforcement had to get involved. I’ve encountered riots, domestic disputes, home invasions, drug deals, and a myriad of other things. One evening, on the way back from Dublin in 2005, a car came out of nowhere on the freeway, passing us so closely that it blew us off the road.
No lights. No sounds… just woosh.
I called 911, they put me through to the Georgia Highway Patrol dispatcher.
The incident went a little something like this.
“Can you see the car?”
“Yes, he just tapped his brakes, he’s about 100 yards ahead of me.”
“Ok, stay with him, just be safe… we’re on the way. Give us the mile marker.”
Over the next three minutes, I kept pace with this car, averaging 95 to 100 mph and still keeping a good distance, cause you know, physics and all. Finally, I was put through to the officer making his way to my location.
We kept pace, the officer telling me his ’20’… “OK, James, in thirty seconds or so, I’ll flash my lights, you back off.”
At that time, I saw the patrol car, saw the lights, heard the siren, and the blue light special was in pursuit. Two of them boxed the guy in and got his number. I’m sure the date went well.
Today, my oldest daughter had a similar experience during a rainstorm. Not only did the truck nearly put them in the ditch, but they were able to record this guy swerving into oncoming traffic nearly causing several fatal accidents.
The 911 operator was a bit less interested than the one I had 18 years ago. As a matter of fact, when they heard that the motorist was off the road, they assumed the matter was done.
I find this interesting. People get up in arms about everything nowadays, but not a life-threatening matter?
Oh, well. Just different I guess. Thought I would share the news. Have a good one.
I’m sure there’s a metaphor in here somewhere… what do you think?
Oh, weeee wooooo – that’s what a siren says.