To the editor:

The recent Los Angeles train crash and resultant 25 deaths were caused by an engineer using a cell phone and running a red light. I agree with the Journal-World’s Sept. 20 editorial which said we should all be concerned about our safety because so many drivers are talking on their cell phones while driving instead of pulling over and having their conversations.

Earlier this year in Douglas County, a sheriff’s deputy riding a bicycle was struck from behind by a motorist using a cell phone while driving, resulting in the deputy’s death. I see parents every day picking up their children at a nearby school and driving off, talking on their cell phones. I think that Lawrence should pass a law that prohibits the use of a cell phone in a moving vehicle.

Another safety issue I am concerned about is the ordinance requiring residents to remove snow from their sidewalks within five days before a fine is given. The past two winters that I have lived here I have seen people having to walk in the streets because the walks were not cleared. The suburb of New York City where I previously lived had an ordinance that required the removal of snow within 24 hours. Hefty fines were given if the law was ignored. Perhaps the city leaders can pass and enforce similar ordinances.

Dave Kyner,
Lawrence