Cameras Make No Allowance for Mistaken Identity

It doesn't take that long to process the images and issue the violations. The notice should arrive in the mail within about two weeks, according to police in Montgomery County, the one jurisdiction in Maryland using the cameras. That's soon enough for most people to retain the memory of who had their car keys on the day and time in question.

Vehicle owners can appeal the citation, but the owner must sign a statement that he or she was not driving and say who was. The police can send the $40 citation to that person.

At a hearing in Annapolis on a bill to give all Maryland jurisdictions the authority to use speed cameras, police said very few vehicle owners challenge the citations. One state senator, concerned about forcing people to snitch on the actual drivers, suggested that they be able to check a box on the citation saying, "I'm innocent," and leave it at that.

Such a check-off box would certainly smooth our passage through life, but as the police noted, it would do little to support law enforcement.

Communication Skills

This letter came from a traveler on his way to Dulles International Airport for a flight to Europe on the last day of Metro's Red Line switch repair at Van Ness Station. Because of the anticipated delays, he said, he had done as Metro suggested and added a half-hour to the usual travel time.

Dear Dr. Gridlock: