I received a speeding ticket on the north end of the U.S. Highway 17 bypass of Edenton where the speed limit drops from 70 mph to 55 mph. I was told the signs were too close together, and this has created a speed trap as well as an unsafe area. The closeness of the two speed-limit signs does not give a person time enough to slow down before they can be clocked speeding. I am 57 years old and have never had a speeding ticket until now.

This closeness of the speed-limit signs has been reported to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. An official there stated that the signs are 750 feet apart. This official also stated that in Bertie County, the speed limit on U.S. Highway 17 drops from 70 mph to 45 mph. This is another speed trap.

I believe speed limits should drop from 70 mph to 60 mph to 55 mph so that drivers will be more aware that the speed limit is dropping. Dropping the speed limit suddenly from 70 mph to 55 mph can startle a person and make them apply their brakes. It creates an unsafe area.

I hope the DOT will correct these problems and post other signs so the public can be aware of these areas. I was assured by DOT this issue would be looked into. I hope someone will follow up on these areas for the safety of the traveling public.

DONNA REDD
Suffolk, Va.