Mercy dash, but only at 30mph please

This week, I spotted an article from Canada in regard to a doctor who had been issued a speeding ticket. No big deal you may ask? Well it is when you learn that the doctor was actually frantically rushing to perform emergency surgery on a patient who had suffered a heart attack.

Despite explaining the situation, the arresting officer continued to detain the physician whilst he issued him a $300 speeding fine. Although I fully understand the risk and dangers of speeding and do not condone it whatsoever, surely a legitimate ‘life or death’ situation such as this, is one scenario that would expect leniency and compassion considering the circumstances?

This is a prime example of the universal robotic, uncompromising nature of the law and it doesn’t just occur in Canada. It’s situations like this where commonsense should prevail but often doesn’t. If I was this doctor, I would certainly appeal the fine. And if I was the arresting officer, I’d hang my head in shame.

By Chris Sweetman of Sweetmans Solicitors, specialists in defending drink driving, speeding, parking and dangerous driving offences.