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A new law in New York allows families and friends to set up memorials at sites where their loved ones died in vehicle accidents. The Alexander John Smullen Traffic Safety Memorial Act, named after Assemblyman Robert Smullen's son, AJ, who died after being struck by a vehicle, aims to honor accident victims and promote road safety.
The law, which passed unanimously in the New York State Assembly and Senate, establishes a state memorial sign program. This program allows the Department of Transportation to set up signs memorializing those who died in fatal motor vehicle crashes on state highways. Assemblyman Smullen expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support and highlighted the law's potential to remind drivers of the dangers of reckless driving.
Smullen stated, "Each and every sign placed will serve as an important reminder to all drivers in New York state: The consequences of impaired, reckless or distracted driving are often deadly." The law is expected to bring peace to families and improve traffic safety across the state.
The bill was introduced by Assemblyman Smullen, with Senator Patricia Fahy sponsoring it in the Senate. Now signed into law, it awaits implementation by the New York State Department of Transportation.