By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department During the summer season, a common question always seems to appear. Can a person drive a vehicle with bare feet? I was asked to provide some information on this. The short answer, in Massachusetts, is yes. However, many other states do not allow this. Even though it is not prohibited specifically by law, I would advise against driving this way. Should an accident or other violation occur, the driver could be liable. One potential violation is "impeded operation." It is found under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 Section 13 and states in part, "No person, when operating a motor vehicle shall permit to be on or in the vehicle or on or about his person anything which may interfere with or impede the proper operation of the vehicle or any equipment by which the vehicle is operated or controlled..." This definition covers many situations. The key phrase here is "on or about your person." If the lack of foot wear impedes the safe and proper operation of the vehicle, such as injuring your foot while moving between pedals, this can have a direct impact on your driving. A violation of this law carries a $35 civil fine. It is important to observe the proper care while driving a car. Appropriate foot wear should be one piece of equipment every driver uses. This small precaution could make a big impact in preventing an accident. I wish to congratulate Sergeant Dean Poplawski, Principal Starczewski, the staff, faculty, and students of the Dudley Middle School for another successful completion of the sixth grade DARE Program. I had the privilege of attending the graduation ceremony on Tuesday, June 19th. Another large crowd was on hand to support the students as they completed this course designed to promote anti drug and anti violence attitudes with our young people. This is completely funded by donations and fund raisers. I once again congratulate the students and thank the school staff, Sgt. Poplawski, and the parents for their dedication to these children. |
Finally, I had the opportunity to attend the Dudley Middle School Eight Grade Promotion Ceremony on June 20th. This event recognizes the Eighth Grade students who are concluding their four-year middle school experience and moving on to high school. It is an opportunity for these young people to gather once more as a group and be recognized for their accomplishments before moving on to various schools. I congratulate Principal Starczewski and his entire staff for another great event which, in their words, puts the kids first.This also marks the end of the school year for the Dudley students. We at the police department wish everyone a happy, fun, and safe summer vacation.
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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