New York motorists who drive drowsy could have a similar experience to those who drive drunk. Driving after staying awake for 24 consecutive hours is similar to driving with a blood alcohol content of .10 percent. That is above the .08 percent threshold states use to determine if a driver is legally drunk. One difference between tired and drunk drivers is that a drunk driver may try to drive slowly and avoid obstacles.
Increase in SUVs may be a factor in rise of pedestrian deaths
Although there has been a concerted effort in New York City and numerous other cities and towns across the U.S., the number of fatal pedestrian accidents has remained high. While many factors have been blamed for the increase, including smartphone use and marijuana legalization, a study showed that SUVs might be a major part of the problem.
New York's hands-free law may not make the roads any safer
Using a hand-held mobile phone or other electronic device while behind the wheel is prohibited in New York, and those who violate this law can be fined as much as $450. Drivers in the Empire State who wish to make phone calls or send text messages are permitted to do so providing that they use a device that allows them to keep their hands on the wheel, but a study from The University of Texas suggests that hands-free features may not actually make cellphones any safer for motorists to use.
