Coppers on Ainaloa

[YurtGirl]

I wondered why people were driving 20mph at the end of Ainaloa, typically people are going closer to 35mph. Then I saw the flashing lights. Seems they're setting up speed/seat belt/cell phone traps there these days.

Did you know that the term 'cop' comes from the older term 'copper' which stemmed from their old school copper badges? At least that's what my retired copper Grampa always told us.

A hui ho~~

[getty62]

yeah, they got me, and now when i am driving the speed limit, other drivers tailgate me or just pass in the no passing zone where are the police then. also have met a couple of police on that road and i can guaranty they not doing the limit.

[YurtGirl]

I was noticing that too, people passing recklessly, tailgating... Then spotted the lights. All the way at the end when it's merging w/ Hawaiian Acres. Is that where you got nabbed getty?

[Green]

I don't know why the cops are targeting ainaloa, but they are, which means most of puna is pretty much a cop free zone since they travel together.

[getty62]

yep, was really beginning to wonder if the traffic speeds here just suggested, even going into Hilo where the limit is 35 if you not doing 45 you just about get run over.

[missydog1]

quote:

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Originally posted by YurtGirl

Did you know that the term 'cop' comes from the older term 'copper' which stemmed from their old school copper badges? At least that's what my retired copper Grampa always told us.

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Actually the word "cop" derives from the Brit slang "copper." To "cop" is a verb to seize or take, and a copper is one who cops -- i.e. seizes, takes, grabs, pinches, arrests people. The term has been around since mid-19th century in England. Any copper used in their uniforms is secondary, but it'a a nice story.

The word copper for the metal comes from "cyprium" from the island Cyprus where it was mined. The verb to "cop" probably comes from the Latin "capere" or French "caper" -- to capture -- so the two origins are quite different.

Don't mind me, I love etymology questions.

The speed limits aren't too in line with what people want to drive, including me -- but no they're not "suggested." If you get stopped going over, you're guilty.

Did you guys know that if you go 30 miles over the speed limit or if you go 80 mph it is a misdemeanor punishable by jail time 2-5 days or 36 hours community service?

[YurtGirl]

Interesting! A copper told me a few years ago that if you go over 25 mph over a posted limit or over 75 mph in general, then it could be counted as a felony. !! Then he told me it was a good thing I had a local license or he'd have ticketed me. That was on the Waikaloa road, I was coasting because I was on fumes. Going about 15 mph over. He also told me that coasting was illegal. That surprised me too!

[force]

I just got pulled over myself. Got away with a warning but i dont need the increase in insurance rates and ticket. Gonna actually try to obey the speed limit, which if you knew me, youd know how hard that is for me to do.

[missydog1]

Interesting about Waikoloa Road, and funny, YG, because I coast on that road too! It's a perfect road for coasting. By coasting, do you mean driving in neutral? I don't do that. I have an automatic now. Don't see how it can be illegal not to put foot on gas when car is already going speed limit?

The excessive speed law was passed in 2007, I think. If one is going 15+ miles over, the points received equal those for reckless driving.

[YurtGirl]

Yes, neutral. I had a standard at the time. 2007 was when I got pulled over. He let me go w/ a warning too. And followed us to the gas station to be sure we made it. Nice guy!