I don’t know if this is a problem all over–I’ve only seen it in Jacksonville, FL, but that’s where I live so I’m a lot more likely to see it here. And it’s a big enough problem here that there’s actually been a report on the local TV news about it.
What I’m talking about is people leaving their cars running, and presumably unlocked as well, while they go into a store or bank. It’s actually a violation in Florida to do this, so I learned from that news report. Of course it’s bad for the environment and a waste of gasoline, but above all it’s incredibly dumb. If it were up to me, if a car is stolen while left running unattended, the police and insurance companies should not treat it as theft, they should consider it a donation, and the money the owner is out would be a de facto stupidity tax.
What possible reason could someone have to leave a car running and walk way? I think of the movie The Gods Must Be Crazy, wherein our hero Steyn has a vehicle that’s nearly impossible to start, so he has to leave it running when he gets out. That led to some hilarious situations. But that was supposed to be funny, what with it being a comedy and all. In real life, I strongly doubt this an issue most of the time, and it’s not funny. It gets back to stupidity, pure and simple.
You can get a ticket in Nashville for leaving your car running. I grew up in northern Indiana and it was common practice to start your car and let it warm up in the morning before you went to school/work, like when it was 10 degrees and your windshield was frosted over. Back then you could take the key out of the ignition while the car was running, lock the doors and be safe. Can’t do that in modern cars, so an extra set of keys is required.
Total Comments by Cal: 3
Now THAT I understand, but not here in Florida, and not anywhere when you’re at a store or bank and the car is already warmed up and defrosted.