Senator Fuschillo: New Law to Enhance Safety in School Zones Takes Effect Tomorrow

     Photo caption: Senator Fuschillo speaks about the new law which will enhance safety in school zones.

     Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) announced that a new law he authored to enhance the safety of students and parents in school zones takes effect tomorrow, November 1st. The new law prohibits drivers from making U turns within school zones.

     Senator Fuschillo made the announcement at Old Mill Road Elementary School in North Merrick with Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray, Town Clerk Nasrin Ahmad, Councilman Gary Hudes, and Assemblyman Dave McDonough.

     “School zones exist to help keep students and parents safe while they are going to and from school. Banning drivers from making u-turns in school zones which are often filled with pedestrians will help prevent accidents and protect families “ said Senator Fuschillo, Chairman of the Senate’s Transportation Committee.

     School zones provide a buffer zone around areas in which students are more likely to be travelling on foot and in cars. The zones limit speed to provide drivers and pedestrians additional time to assess dangers. Preventing motorists from making U turns in school zones will create more predictable traffic patterns in these areas, improving safety for both pedestrians and drivers.

     “Thanks to state legislation passed by Senator Fuschillo and the town officials who will be displaying important safety signs around local schools, motorists will now be aware that it is illegal to make a U-turn in a school safety zone,” said Supervisor Murray.

     “We know that drivers are often rushing from place to place and may be unaware that they are in a school speed zone. This new legislation and additional signage will bring an added level of safety to pedestrians near our local schools,” said Councilman Hudes.

     The new law takes effect tomorrow, November 1st.