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Testimony Of State Senator Liz
Krueger Before The Assembly Committees On Codes And Transportation Regarding Efforts To Prevent Deaths Caused By Reckless Or
Negligent Drivers February
26, 2004
Good morning. My name is Liz Krueger, and I am the State
Senator for the 26th District, which includes the East Side and
Midtown of Manhattan. I am here to
testify in support of A7311, which would establish penalties for driving
while impaired by fatigue. Such
legislation will help address the dangers presented by drivers who endanger
other motorists and pedestrians by driving while impaired. According to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tired drivers cause 56,000 accidents
annually, and a Salem Hospital study places the number at over 100,000
accidents per year. NHTSA estimates
these accidents result in at least 40,000 injuries and 1500 deaths each
year. Unfortunately, few people
realize the dangers of driving while fatigued. A.7311 will save lives both by getting fatigued drivers off the
road, and by highlighting the dangers they cause, thereby encouraging people
to avoid driving when they are tired. The legislation is an important
step in changing the way we think about driving. It mirrors the extremely successful efforts to reduce drunk
driving through increased penalties and education efforts. Driving while fatigued is just as
dangerous as driving while drunk.
According to an Australian study, being awake for 24 hours produces an
impairment equivalent to a .1 percent blood alcohol level, well over the .08
percent level that constitutes legal intoxication. Many other factors can also contribute to fatigue while
driving, and it is essential that drivers recognize these dangers and stop
driving when they are fatigued. In 2003 New Jersey passed similar
legislation, establishing itself as a leader in the fight against drowsy
drivers. I urge New York State to
follow their example and pass A.7311.
This legislation will save many lives, and force New Yorkers to
recognize the danger presented by driving while fatigued. Thank you for the opportunity to
testify today.
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