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nathanjohannessen

The Dangers of Speeding on PCH: A Call for Action



In the picturesque yet perilous stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Malibu Highway, the stark contrast between the serene beauty of the surroundings and the dangers of reckless driving becomes glaringly evident. As someone who adheres to the 45 mph speed limit, I often observe cars zooming past, only to meet them again at the next red light. This observation begs the question: Why the rush, if we all reach our destination at the same time?


The problem is not just one of frustration or inefficiency; it's a matter of life and death. The PCH has witnessed tragic accidents, some resulting in fatalities. A recent heart-wrenching incident involved four young women losing their lives due to a driver speeding at over 105 mph. These incidents highlight the dire need for stricter enforcement of speed limits and a more significant police presence to deter such reckless behavior.


Unfortunately, our appeals for safer roads seem to fall on deaf ears. While Caltrans is prompt in addressing issues like emergency repairs on a bridge damaged by fire, their response to repeated requests for enhancing road safety measures has been lackluster. The city has sought help, and the community has voiced its concerns, yet the urgency to act on these pleas for safety remains unaddressed.


The disparity in response is alarming. On one hand, structural threats to a bridge garner immediate action; on the other, the threat to human lives on the same highway is met with inaction. It appears as though our hands are tied, with bureaucratic hurdles overshadowing the clear and present danger on our roads.


How many more lives must be lost before the authorities take decisive action? It's a question that looms heavily over our community. The need for speed regulation on PCH is not just a matter of enforcing laws; it's about preserving lives and ensuring that the beauty of our drive is not marred by preventable tragedies. We urge Caltrans and local law enforcement to take immediate steps to make the PCH a safer route for all. The time to act is now, before another life is tragically cut short on this beautiful yet dangerous road. News Article: (Read it Here) A 22-year-old driver of a BMW that struck and killed four Pepperdine University students in Malibu was traveling 104 mph seconds before the horrific crash on a stretch of Pacific Coast Highway, prosecutors said when they announced charges against him Wednesday.


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