THE EDITOR, Sir:
I MUST commend the operators of tow-trucks for the passion and zest with which they tackle the job of the removal of illegally parked vehicles.
These tow-trucks circle the streets of New Kingston all day, like starving crows, circling to find an unfortunate prey. It appears that when motorists are orderly and obey parking signs, the poor drivers are forced to extend their hunting ground unto the nearby residential areas in order to meet their quota for the day.
These drivers can also damage your vehicle in the process of removal without taking responsibility. In fact they are not even obliged to give notice that your vehicle has been towed, and there is no room for any dispute by the motorist or even tolerance for an opinion. You see, not all areas are clearly marked and if you happened to be parked in one of these obscure "zones" and the driver of one of these tow-trucks decides that you are parked illegally, then that is the gospel according to Mark.
The state has failed to provide adequate parking facilities which makes it virtually impossible for citizens to comply with the laws.
What is even more repulsive is that the state has now converted its own negligence to its own advantage by using this as a means to earn revenue and to provide "privileged contractors" with a guaranteed source of income.
Could we not have a system where motorists are issued tickets to either pay a fine or attend court? If this is the only or the most efficient means of discouraging motorists then with policy makers like these how can we ever emerge from this deepening abyss.
I am etc.,
FAYE ELLECE JACOBS
E-mail: fayej@n5.com.jm.
