Police in North Central Kansas pulled over a commercial motor vehicle this week for the crime of being too festive. The truck, spotted with holiday lights strewn all over the hood, skirts and visor, spread cheer for an unknown distance before being apprehended by authorities.
“Imagine driving down the road and seeing red or blue lights approaching from behind or coming toward you. Naturally, you might slow down and pull to the right, thinking it’s an emergency vehicle. This split-second reaction could create confusion and even lead to a dangerous traffic crash,” wrote Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner in a post (since deleted) on Twitter/X. “While the display was interesting and joyful, these colors are reserved for emergency vehicles and can’t be used on public roadways.”
KHP, in the end, cited the driver for “unauthorized additional lighting.” Authorities have been on high alert for festive vehicles since "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer."
“While we appreciate the holiday cheer, let’s keep the roads safe for everyone, save the lights for your home or tree," concluded the KHP's post.
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While the law enforcement agency tasks itself with policing the road, comments on the post charged, judged, and ultimately carried out a steep sentence on Trooper Ben for policing fun. It became such a popular topic of conversation that Trooper Ben, his handle on Twitter, issued a lengthy statement apologizing for the post but reiterating the law.
His original post "got a lot more attention and discussion than I expected," he said. "I wrote it, I shared it, and I take full responsibility for how it came across. My goal was to highlight the work our troopers are doing to keep the roads safe, but I realize now that the post may have caused some confusion, and I want to clear that up."
The principal source of confusion, of course, was the law, which the nontrucking and avidly talkative social media public probably had no idea about. "Kansas law is clear," he wrote. "Only white (headlights) and amber (turn signals) lights are allowed to shine to the front of vehicles. Adding any other lights, even festive ones, is a violation. It’s simply the law, and it exists to prevent confusion on the road."
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Ultimately, the post "sparked a lot of back-and-forth that went beyond what I intended," wrote Trooper Ben. He took down the post, saying he never meant to "create unnecessary conflict or confusion."
I think most drivers and the peanut gallery alike can probably relate to creating unnecessary conflict and confusion with social media.
"Enjoy the holiday season, drive safely, and please remember to buckle up," Trooper Ben concluded.
Here's wishing you the same -- a big Happy Thanksgiving, and know that we're thankful for you. If you haven't seen it yet, check out our current survey on broker transparency.
