County Legislator Norma L. Gonsalves (R-East Meadow) voted to authorize execution of two separate grant agreements with the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee that will fund programs aimed at reducing roadway crashes, injuries and fatalities.

"Nassau County is the fifth most populous county in New York State, but we have the distinction of leading the State in total property damage crashes and being second in fatal crashes," said Legislator Gonsalves. "The programs funded by these grants will focus on specific behaviors that put people at added risk."

The first program, funded by a Federal grant in the amount of $218,470, consists of several traffic safety enforcement and education components including: police enforcement of aggressive driving; monies for DWI breath test instruments; a child safety seat education program; and a bicycle, pedestrian and occupant restraint program for 10 to 14 year-olds.

Under the second program, funded by a State grant in the amount of $101,722, Nassau will participate in the "STEP" To Reduce Unsafe Driving Behaviors program, targeting speeding, impaired driving and aggressive driving. As defined by the program, aggressive driving refers to red light and stop sign running, unsafe lane changes, failure to yield right of way and following too closely.

"Impatient, aggressive individuals behind the wheel are a threat to all of us, and anything that can be done to discourage this and other types of dangerous driving behavior will help to prevent a great number of vehicular accidents, ranging from fender benders to serious fatalities," concluded Legislator Gonsalves.