Officials with the New York State Police will be out in full force targeting irresponsible drivers through the Labor Day holiday weekend. Focus of the initiative will be along the Thruway, according to CNY News.
Troopers will be posted along toll roads in and out of New York. This enforcement effort has been dubbed “Operation Summer Brake” and officers will be on the hunt for aggressive, intoxicated and speeding drivers, as well as those on their cell phones while driving. Officers will also be conducting checkpoints to make sure that all motorists are properly buckled.
Our New York City car accident lawyers understand that all drivers need to keep safety as a number one concern — even if your travel plans don’t involve the Thruway. With the increase in traffic, we’re bound to see an increase in the number of accidents — and the number of accident fatalities. As a matter of fact, officials with the National Safety Council (NSC) are estimating that close to 400 people will be killed in motor-vehicle accidents in the U.S. over the long holiday weekend.
With this increase in traffic, we’re asking all drivers to hang up the phone, put down the text messaging devices and pay attention to the road. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers are prohibited from using a handheld cell phone behind the wheel — unless it’s being used to call 911 or other emergency services. If you’re busted by an officer talking on one of these devices, you run the risk of getting a traffic citation and a fine of $150. You’re also going to get five points added to your driver’s license.
In addition to cell phone-using drivers, officers will also be looking for unbuckled motorists as well as aggressive and intoxicated drivers. Read and review the following safety tips to help to avoid getting nabbed by an officer:
-Make sure that you always have a designated driver is your Labor Day celebrations include alcohol. There is never a reason to get behind the wheel after drinking. It’s a decision that could cost lives.
-Leave for your destination with plenty of time to spare. Without rushing, you’re less likely to get agitated behind the wheel. The feeling of rush gives of a sense of irritability and decreases our safe driving habits.
-Be ready for traffic delays. With more than 34 million people expected to travel more than 50 miles from their house over the Labor Day weekend, you can expect some heavy traffic. Factor that into your travel plans and leave earlier.
-Be aware of the road laws in areas in which you’ll be traveling to. Knowledge in varying road laws will help you to avoid a citation for officers.
-Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially during inclement weather.
-Be on the lookout for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Many residents and visitors to the area will be outside enjoying the long weekend. Remember that these people are travelers too, and they have a right to the roadway as well.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a traffic accident, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose, PLLC for s free consultation. Call 1-877-313-7673.
More Blog Entries:
New York Traffic Safety Watch: Cognitive Distraction the Biggest Threat, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, August 5, 2013
Heat and Tires, Causing Motorist Headaches Across New York, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, July 15, 2013
