This year, Labor Day is September 1, with New York City starting its school year just a few days later, on September 5. Both create potential issues for the drivers in our industry. Labor Day weekend is a notorious time for drunk drivers, and every new school year presents challenges, as more children are on city streets, going to and from school.
Labor Day Weekend
During Labor Day Weekend, the number of fatal and catastrophic accidents increases dramatically, as more people drive while intoxicated (DWI).
- Use extra caution and be prepared to use your best defensive driving skills if you observe an apparent DWI driver.
- Call 911 to report any apparent DWI drivers traveling on highways or streets.
- Do not confront any DWI drivers.
- Be patient if you are delayed in police DWI checkpoints as you may have been the victim of a drunk driver being removed from the road.
- Traffic volume increases after Labor Day, so be patient and be prepared to plan alternate routes to help your passengers arrive safely to their destinations in the timeliest manner.
Back to School Time Once Again
- Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel.
- Watch out for children standing or walking along the side of the road and crossing streets.
- Always remember to STOP if you are approaching a school bus with a stop sign or flashing red lights, either from the front or behind. It is the LAW.
- Make a mental note of all schools, playgrounds and other locations frequented by children that you may pass during your usual work shift.
- Watch out for children who are not paying attention as they walk – instead looking down at their hand held devices.
