N. Hempstead Reminds Residents to Slow Down When Passing Garbage Trucks

It is illegal to speed past garbage trucks and sanitation vehicles in New York State, North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth reminds residents.

The latest state amendment requires motorists to reduce their speed when passing waste and recycling collection vehicles with flashing lights. First-time violators can get two points on their driver’s license, be fined up to $150 and/or get 15 days in jail, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

“Most people don’t realize how hazardous the job of a sanitation worker is,” Bosworth said in a press release. “They shouldn’t have to worry about reckless motorists putting their lives in danger on local roads as well.”

A law passed in 2011 requires drivers to slow down and move over a lane, if possible, when approaching hazard vehicles, including police cars, fire trucks and tow trucks. The latest amendment, which was signed into law in August and took effect in November, classifies garbage trucks and waste collection vehicles as “hazard vehicles” as well.

Sanitation workers and refuse collectors have higher fatality rates than police or firemen and their job has the fifth highest rate for injuries, accidents and fatalities, according to federal statistics. Loggers, fishermen, aircraft pilots, and roofers were at greater risk of dying on the job in 2016.