Funding cutbacks jeopardize safety

By Staff
Our Opinion
It's long been said that people shouldn't take the law into their own hands.
Their protection, however, is another matter.
The defeat of Gov. Bob Riley's tax and accountability program has dealt severe blows to state departments.
No where are these cuts felt more deeply than the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
State budget cuts have reduced state trooper patrols statewide and the department is encouraging all motorists to take precautions when traveling Alabama's roadways.
Troopers are now working a four-day workweek and are operating under mileage restrictions.
The effect for Alabama drivers will be delayed responses to auto accidents and other traffic emergencies.
Col. Mike Coppage, department director, said Alabamians are being called on to do more to protect themselves on the roadways.
Coppage advises drivers to:
All of these tips are designed to keep drivers safe. However, who wants to rely on these alone to protect or save your loved one in the event of an emergency?
For now, though, there's not much more that can be done. Alabamians decided not to pay the piper and now face the consequences.