When a health issue, such as an aneurysm, strikes while driving, we are at the mercy of what lies ahead.

Chain-link and iron fences can be considered “security measures.” Yet, their usefulness to prevent vehicles from breaking through and continuing to move pales in comparison to the “ugly duckling” guardrails.

The evolution of the guardrail proves their value in saving lives, which should be respected by highway and road officials. Sadly they are not, as safety is continually turned over to statistical probability and taken out of the realm of common sense. These less thought out safety practices are likely the result of a prevailing attitude that “Any dumb driver should know that.”

The recent canal crash, like the Main Street crash in 1994, should not have been fatal.

If the car were held on the roadway at rest against a guardrail, assistance would have been on its way in minutes.

Some like to beautify certain city plots, which is fine. While some are remarkable displays, who is overseeing the results and safety hazards that may have been created where none existed before? Canal Street, near the accident site, has shrubbery that obstructs the view of oncoming Canal Street traffic year round.

We can accept short-term snow mounds, but that thicket is another beautification disaster waiting for victims.

Larry W. Mayes, Lewiston