Labor Day Weekend, that last great escape, is also a time of danger, when many accidents occur. And police and highway engineers can only do so much. The rest is up to each of us.
Governor David Paterson recently signed some new traffic safety laws, which will go into effect in November, regarding the use of portable electronic devices while driving. Just like talking on cell phones, texting has become a big problem, causing accidents due to driving while distracted. As long as the car is moving, keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road!
The other new laws more than double the number of hours of practice teens need before getting a license, from 20 to 50. While they still have their learning permits, they cannot have more than one passenger who is under age 21, and not a family member. And the supervising adult licensed driver has to sit in the front seat. Teens take note!
The police can stop some people from breaking the law, but they can’t prevent every accident. We each have a personal responsibility to drive safely.
Traffic engineers can also help make our roads safer. The bike path on the Wantagh Parkway needs their attention, and we propose metal guard rails at least where the road curves. But again, it is everyone's responsibility to drive safely, and many of the fatalities along that stretch have been due to excessive speed and driving under the influence. Wantagh Parkway was originally designed as a “linear park,” with scenery to be enjoyed on a leisurely drive. Other kinds of fun should stop at the beach, not carry on in some manic way on the way home!
We wish everyone a safe, happy Labor Day weekend. And when we come into work on Tuesday, we pray we will have no police accident reports to print.
The voluntary traveler
For most of us, vacation is a rest from the daily routine of work, a chance to replenish our energy and widen our horizons. Some of us visit family to reconnect; some of us explore new vistas.
A new idea is to spend the time as a volunteer in another part of the country or the world. It’s a great way to learn about other people and also get new skills. Many college students are doing it and enjoying making a difference while having an adventure. A new book called “The Voluntary Traveler,” compiled by Nola Lee Kelsey and published by DogsEyeViewMedia.com, lets several of these volunteers tell their stories, and also compiles listings of U.S. and international organizations that accept volunteers.
If your last vacation left you feeling something was missing, why not check it out as you plan for next time?