New York drivers should expect greater efforts to catch speeders. Governor Andrew Cuomo is expected to sign into law the approval of more than 200 speed cameras for New York City and Long Island. He has been working diligently on a campaign to reduce the number of traffic fatalities. The goal is to improve pedestrian safety for children walking to and from school.
The speed camera stats:
- New York City already has 20 speed cameras;
- New York could get as many as 120 or more near schools;
- Suffolk County schools may get up to 60; and
- Nassau County could get up to 56.
The cameras would operate just before and after school activities. They will also continue throughout the school day. Violators will receive a $50 ticket for a violation. But more importantly, it could improve children’s safety in these areas.
Speeding a Problem in New York City Area
Some of the most dangerous thoroughfares and intersections are near schools. But other areas also pose serious risks to pedestrians. In 2012 alone, there were 15,496 pedestrian accidents in the state according to the New York DMV. In 455 of these accidents, unsafe speed was cited as a factor.
Transportation Alternatives conducted studies in Brooklyn and Queens. In Brooklyn, they observed nearly 33 percent of the drivers going ten miles or more over the 30 mph speed limit. In Queens, 80 percent of drivers going over the speed limit.
School children are especially vulnerable to serious physical harm in a pedestrian crash. But anyone struck by a car could face disabling or disfiguring injuries. It’s important to seek legal counsel if you or someone you love has been a victim of a driver’s negligence. Call Gacovino, Lake & Associates at 800-550-0000 to speak with an attorney about your case.
