Practicing safe driving on Long Island

Long Island, home to about 2.9 million people who indulge in the island's beautiful beaches, delicious food options, vineyards, and so much more. Many people have grown accustomed to the quiet suburban lifestyle that comes with living on the Island, but may turn their gaze away from the darker subjects that come with living on Long Island. Newsday sheds light onto this subject, displaying the fact that “Every 7 minutes on average, a traffic crash causing death, injury, or significant property damage happens on Long Island.” From the years 2014 to 2023, there were more than 2,100 deaths and about 16,000 people injured in a car accident on Long Island roads. These factors are becoming increasingly more alarming when it comes to determining the safety of the roads on Long Island. Highways such as Sunrise and Montauk are commonly known for street racing amongst the younger generation, putting pedestrians at risk of collision. Due to the outdated road designs, inconsistency of speed limits, and essentially useless pedestrian infrastructures, it becomes increasingly more important for drivers to be cautious of the ones around them. Although safety improvements must be done to our Long Island roads such as enhanced crosswalks, better signage, and traffic calming measures. Additionally, it is important to practice safe driving to keep our family and loved ones, and even ourselves safe on the roads.

How to Practice Safe Driving: 

1. Wear a seatbelt. Make sure your passengers are wearing their seatbelts. This can reduce the risk of injuries and death if you were to be involved in a car crash and potentially save your life. 

2. Drive sober. Not only is it illegal to drive impaired, it is also irresponsible. Whether you have had too much to drink, or indulge in other kinds of substances, you have alternative options. You can call an uber/taxi, catch a ride with a sober friend, or even use public transportation. 

3. In order to practice safe driving, your full attention is required. That being said, pay attention to your surroundings while driving. Refrain from checking text messages, or anything related to your phone as it has proven to be the #1 distraction while driving.

4. Obey the speed limits. Not only does speeding put you and your passengers at risk, but also everybody you are sharing the road with. There’s no rush, slow down. 

Do not drive sleepy. It’s important to get enough sleep before driving to maintain alertness while driving. If you are on a roadtrip, make sure you are taking necessary precautions and not driving for more than 10 hours at a time.