Crashes that produce thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths on our highways could be avoided with a little more attention and precautions. A Triple-A foundation studyfound that could also save some New York drivers from going to jail.
Most of us have likely be driving down a highway and seen a truck overloaded with furniture or scrap metal wondering when something’s going to fall off – and create a road hazard. Or what about a tire or wheel that flies off at 70 miles an hour you might have to dodge – or else. Well the AAA foundation found 200,000 accidents over the past four years were caused by debris on the road…leading to 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths. AAA of Western and Central New York spokesperson Lindsay Hawkins says most could be avoided.
"I would say tires are definitely a big thing; worn or under-inflated tires can lead to a blowout," Hawkins says. "Exhaust systems as well, that hardware can just detach and just drop off. Exhaust systems can be looked over at an oil change, they're very easy to spot, they're very easy to fix, so it's avoidable."
People moving furniture proved to be the other most likely hazard.
"The professionals who do this more often have this downpat," Hawkins said. "It probably is most likely the people who are moving quickly, they want to get it done, get it over with, maybe they're making a few trips. They're not as secure as they probably should be. Just that extra few minutes to tighten up the straps can make a difference on the roadway, for sure."
Hawkins says accidents occur most often when someone swerves to avoid the debris…which is exactly what happened on Route 81 north in Syracuse last Thursday. A dump truck lost a wheel causing an accident. A medical transport van swerved after striking the wheel and ended up hitting the truck driver, who was standing on the side of the highway. Hawkins says under New York law, ignoring road-debris dangers can lead to legal trouble.
"There is a fine of up to $750, and/or 30 days in prison," Hawkins said. "That would be dependent on the number of incidents. So, if you're a mover, and you are not securing furniture or appliances properly, that happens so many times, you could be facing prison time."
So, she suggests any carrying loads make sure they’re secure…test the ropes or straps and shake everything around to see that it’s tight. Also maintain vehicles to wheels, tires, exhaust parts or anything else doesn’t become a potentially deadly obstacle or projectile. During the four-year study period 59 people died on New York roadways from such accidents.
