Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Police Commissioner Rodney K. Harrison today announced the results of the department’s Back-To-School Safe Driving Enforcement Initiative conducted during the first two weeks of school in Suffolk County. During that period, more than 430 traffic violations, including speeding, distracted driving and failure to yield to pedestrians, were issued in and around school zones.
“Keeping the children of Suffolk County safe is always a top priority and this includes their safety not only while they are in school, but while they are on their way to and from school,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “I want to thank the men and woman of the Suffolk County Police Department for their hard work ensuring that those who break the law by not following the rules of the road, putting a child’s life in danger, are held accountable.”
“There is no excuse for breaking the law on our roadways, but it is especially egregious in areas where children are making their way to and from school,” Commissioner Rodney K. Harrison said. “I was shocked to hear the results of this enforcement initiative and hope it serves as a reminder to Suffolk residents to always follow the rules of the road, especially when near school buildings. It can help save a life.”
A breakdown of uniform traffic tickets issued in and around school zones during the two-week period from September 5 to September 19:
- Distracted Driving Violations: 64
- Speeding Violations: 142
- Total Moving Violations: 315
- Total Uniform Traffic Tickets: 434
While these tickets represent the results of the department’s efforts to enforce safe driving in and around school zones during the first two weeks of the new school year, the department will continue to utilize high visibility and enhanced patrols to further crack down on dangerous drivers.
The department continues to remind residents to drive with caution around school buildings and obey all traffic laws.