Decatur’s impound ordinance is paying dividends by getting unqualified drivers off the city’s streets. Unlicensed drivers apparently are getting the message that it is illegal and costly to operate a motor vehicle without a driver license.

So are licensed motorists who insist on speeding. Police have increased ticketing in high-wreck areas.

The results since Feb. 1, when the ordinance took effect? Police average about six impounds a day. That is more than 1,600 vehicles.

And guess what? During that same period, police answered 324 fewer calls to vehicle wrecks than during the same period the previous year, or about 36 wrecks per month. When enforcement increases, wreck calls go down.

The ordinance is undeniably tough on violators. It costs a minimum of $100 to reclaim a vehicle, plus showing proof of liability insurance.

Impounding was a controversial issue, but Councilman Gary Hammon persisted in getting the City Council to unanimously approve the ordinance. Some advocates for immigrants said such ordinances are unfair because those here illegally are not eligible for a license, which is an oxymoron.

The ordinance is fair, especially to motorists who abide by the rules and get a license and the proper insurance. But it is not fair to have an uninsured motorist of any nationality ram his vehicle into your vehicle.

The city’s ordinance is a hardship on conscientious illegal immigrants and others. But if you can’t pass the driving test and can’t or won’t buy liability insurance, you have no business driving and endangering the lives and property of others.

Mr. Hammon said he is pleased with the results and hopes other cities adopt similar ordinances. He should be pleased because enforcing the ordinance helps make the streets safer.