“If you pay a fine for your kid, then what? I’d rather have them learn something.” – parent of a teen traffic violator
One of the questions that comes up at the end of our Traffic Violators Conference is, “Why do we have traffic laws in the first place?” Having the opportunity to discuss things with a police officer and a community member allows teen drivers not only the chance to fully understand traffic laws, but also the safety considerations underlying the laws. Within a restorative justice context, this conference reinforces how our best decisions are based on the good of others.
“Since being pulled over I have been paying much closer attention to posted speed limits. The consequences of speeding have become more real from getting caught. From the meeting, I have also been more conscious about my stops. I think this Restorative Justice has been more helpful than a ticket alone.” – Teen Participant
The goal of the program is to allow teen drivers to have agreater learning experience and to take greater responsibility in lieu of having to pay a fine (and receiving points). By agreeing to attend the conference, all teen participants (up tofour in one conference) agree to accepting responsibility for their violations, having open and honest communication with an officer and a community member, and completing pre-determined sanctions. A facilitator guides the conversations about the violations, safety concerns, and future choices. Officers have a chance to strengthen community relations with folks in the community as well as explain all the details that surround traffic violations.
Traffic SAFETY is ultimately a matter of SOCIAL awareness.
After the conference a teen participant is responsible for writing an essay and completing 6 hours of community service. They are given 15 days to complete the essay and it should include a summary of their offense, things they learned in the conference, and two statistics about traffic safety. They are given 30 days to complete the community service at a site of their choice. Letters are shared with the officers of the referring agency. After both sanctions are completed and returned to Restorative Justice, a case will be closed.
“I learned many new things during the meeting. An important thing I learned is that no matter how trivial a traffic law may seem, it’s there for a reason. By making better choices, I effectively reduce the risk of injury to any pedestrians.” – Traffic Program Participant
