New 'Text Stops' Dedicated To Woman Killed In Head-On Crash

FLANDERS, NY — In an effort to prevent future tragedy on Route 24 in Flanders, new "Text Stop" signs were unveiled last week to provide a place for motorists to pull over safely.

The signs came after the greatest of heartbreaks: Resident Susan Tocci advocated for the signs after her sister Barbara Tocci was killed in a head-on crash on Flanders Road in 2014; shortly after, Barbara Tocci's son's fiance, Hayley Riggins, who was on her motorcycle, was killed in a crash involving a driver allegedly driving under the influence of drugs, according to police reports.

She left behind her baby girl, Kadence.

On Friday, Suffolk County Legis. Bridget Fleming, New York Assemb. Fred Thiele, Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman, members of the Southampton Town board, Suffolk County Parks representatives, New York State troopers, members of the Tocci family, and representatives of the Flanders, Riverside and Northampton Community Association as well as community leaders came together for the unveiling of a pair of the "text stop signs," in memory of Tocci.

Tocci died when her car was struck by the driver of a truck who strayed from his lane.

The signs also caution motorists not to text and drive.

Tocci has crusaded against texting while driving and driving under the influence, and she also has signs on her property, urging motorists not to drive under the influence, to serve as reminders of all her family has lost.

"The dedication of this 'text stop' to Barbara keeps Barbara’s memory alive — and hopefully drivers will use this text stop, which will prevent future tragedies and therefore save numerous lives. We appreciate the extensive efforts of Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming and her staff for making this possible," Tocci said, adding, "Don't put others at risk. Don't text and drive. It can wait."

Fleming said may people still don't really understand how very dangerous distracted driving is. "If you are going 55 miles an hour and look at your phone for five seconds, that's the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed," she said.

The signs, Fleming added, encourage drivers to take that danger seriously, pull over, and dispense with distractions before getting back on the road.

Photo courtesy of Susan Tocci.