Why Do Chicago Cops Roll Blue?
Ever wondered why Chicago police cars look like they're auditioning for a Tron sequel? With their all-blue lightbars, they're a stark contrast to the red and blue combo most of us are used to. Let's dive into this chromatic conundrum.
The Windy City, Windy Ways
Chicago, being the unique city it is, has its own unique rules. Turns out, Illinois law allows for cities of a certain size to use blue lights instead of the traditional red and blue. And guess who's big enough to pull this off? Our beloved Windy City, that’s who. So, there you have it. It’s basically a “size matters” situation, but in a totally legal and non-offensive way.
Blue Lights: The Bat Signal for the Midwest?
Now, you might be thinking, “Blue lights? That’s more like a superhero signal than a police car!” And you wouldn't be entirely wrong. While there's no official Batman connection (yet), the blue lights do add a certain mystique to the Chicago PD. Plus, it's a great way to distinguish themselves from other emergency vehicles. Imagine the chaos if fire trucks and ambulances were also flashing blue!
More Than Just Looks
But it's not all about aesthetics. Blue lights are said to be more visible in foggy conditions, which can be a common occurrence in Chicago. So, while it might look like a fashion statement, there's actually a practical reason behind it. Who knew style and safety could go hand-in-hand?
So, Should You Install Blue Lights on Your Car?
Absolutely not. Unless you want a swift visit from the friendly neighborhood police, that is. Blue lights are reserved for authorized emergency vehicles. So, stick to the boring old red and blue combo for your ride.
How To...
- How to spot a Chicago police car: Look for the all-blue lightbar.
- How to avoid getting pulled over: Obey traffic laws. Duh.
- How to become a Chicago police officer: Meet the requirements and go through the rigorous training process.
- How to appreciate the uniqueness of Chicago: Embrace the city's quirks, like the blue police lights.
- How to learn more about emergency vehicle lights: Check out Wikipedia or your local police department's website.