Accident News Headlines

Commissioner of DMV in New York Announces New Safety Campaign

Commissioner Nancy A. Naples of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Chair of Governor George E. Pataki's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), today announced the release of the newest public safety campaign reminding motorists to be aware of motorcycles.  The public awareness initiative includes innovative 30-second and 15-second commercials titled "Little More Than A Glance" which are being distributed to electronic media across the State in conjunction with the New York State Broadcasters Association. "Too many motorcycle accidents are caused by distracted drivers who turn in front of motorcycles.  This public safety television commercial emphasizes the need for motorists to be mindful of motorcyclists traveling on the roadways this summer," Commissioner Naples said.  "By practicing smart highway safety behavior we will achieve greater levels of safety for all of New York's motoring public."

The new commercial focuses on a driver and passenger engaged in a conversation, as they travel through a common suburban neighborhood.  The distracted driver makes a left turn at an intersection causing a dramatic crash with a motorcycle.  The commercial concludes with commentary from Commissioner Naples reminding people to watch for motorcycles. According to the most recent statistics available, nearly 4,500 motorcycle accidents occurred in New York State in 2004 with more than 150 people killed as a result of a motorcycle crash.  Driver inattention and distraction was specifically listed in approximately 13 percent of all motorcycle crashes.

Commissioner Naples made the announcement today to coincide with Americade, the world's largest motorcycle touring rally that brings tens of thousands of motorcyclists each year to Upstate New York. The new commercials and additional motorcycle safety tips and information can be found by visiting the GTSC's website at www.safeny.com or the DMV's website at www.nysdmv.com. The GTSC coordinates traffic safety activities across the State and is comprised of 13 member agencies, including the DMV.  The head of each agency acts as that agency's official representative to the Committee, whose initiatives include programs designed to promote highway safety.  Commissioner Nancy Naples serves as Chair of the Committee.