At the risk of continuing a thing that ought to end, I’d suggest that Doug and Vijaya MacLean reread my original letter [Harvard Press, Nov. 23]. My letter was specifically addressed to the persons expressing “outrage” at the chief’s comments [about the Oct. 28 accident on Littleton Road]. Our chief is outstanding. I like how he deals with things, and I want to defend him. I have never met him, although I would like to.
My letter was not about blaming anyone, beyond what was published. In the letter I observed that the chief expressed admiration for the driver’s “evasive actions.” That implied things; still does. I know all about evasive action in Harvard, as do two other letter-writers who wrote to the Press, empathizing with that point.
The opinions of the chief and state police were printed in the newspaper without caveat, which I am now accused of believing only at my peril. I like to read the news, “pre-spin.” If Grant was hit broadside, and the car was not at fault, I guess we are not allowed any deductive reasoning, no matter how obvious, as it may be “callous.” My best wishes to Grant; that is not the point. The point is the scapegoating of cars and drivers as always being at fault. My original letter was edited, and the Press added the “Keep Right” headline, not me. Still valid, however.
Whatever—the whole letter sequence only validates my observations. Let’s blame the tooth fairy and move on, so all can smile. But not before much mayhem, many committees and outcries lead to a much-needed “dangerous intersection” or “pedestrians” sign, or both.
We all need to pay attention—drivers and cyclists alike.
John Grady
Slough Road
