According to NBC News, New York will begin using LED signs and text alerts sent to drivers’ phones and local police departments in an effort to prevent wrong-way driving accidents on the Thruway.
NBC reported that the system uses Doppler radar to detect wrong-way drivers and is being installed at the Buffalo exit at the Niagara Expressway, also known as Interstate 190. The state also plans to install the LED equipment in Rockland County.
“New York is the first state in the nation to utilize this sophisticated technology to enhance traffic safety and save lives,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said, according to NBC News.
The LED signs will alert drivers and tell them to turnaround, according to NBC News—other drivers will also be alerted that there is a wrong-way driver coming, as well as police.
According to NBC News, there were 17 fatalities in 15 accidents on the Thruway in 2012. Cuomo also told the news service that last year was the safest year on the Thruway in its 59-year history.
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Aside from death, some of the injuries related to wrong-way driving accidents include broken bones, spinal cord injuries and brain injuries. In many cases, wrong-way accidents involve drunk drivers.
According to YNN.com, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) did an investigation looking into wrong way collisions, finding that between 2004 and 2009, 60 percent of wrong way drivers had indications of alcohol involvement.
KGG lawyer Barry S. Kantrowitz assists personal injury victims who have been injured in vehicle accidents. Contact us toll free at (800) 711-5258 to schedule a free initial consultation or complete the form on this page to let our skilled attorneys review your case.
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