The New York State Thruway Authority is once again reminding local drivers about the dangers of distracted driving in work zones.
While distracted and unsafe driving isn’t tolerated by law enforcement in any capacity, the recent spotlight on work zone accidents seems to highlight the NYSTA’s commitment to keeping their employees safe while on the job.
Authorities say a recent crash on the New York State Thruway was another instance of an avoidable work zone accident (NYS Thruway Authority via Facebook)
Authorities say a recent crash on the New York State Thruway was another instance of an avoidable work zone accident (NYS Thruway Authority via Facebook)New York State Police Conduct “Operation Hardhat”
Throughout 2025, there have been numerous operations by the New York State Police specifically focused on drivers who ignore safety regulations in work zones. In August, for example, an Operation Hardhat mission on the Taconic State Parkway issued 79 tickets in just several hours (below). Authorities say the operations are meant to avoid accidents like the recent Thruway crash.
Recent Crash in Work Zone on New York State Thruway
“THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN”, began the recent post from the NYSTA, along with photos from a crash involving a passenger truck and a Thruway attenuator, a vehicle specifically designed to absorb impacts and protect nearby construction crews (below).
The trifecta of tickets issued to the driver for speeding, cell phone use, and an unsafe lane change, paint a clear picture of what authorities believe caused the crash, including one infraction that has become increasingly popular in New York State.
Most Popular Moving Violations in New York State
Earlier in the year, the New York State Police shared a basic breakdown of recent tickets issued in the state. While speeding tickets were issued more than any other type of moving violation, obeying New York’s Move Over Law was the second-most popular infraction. The NYSTA was clear in their recent post: “It’s simple – SLOW DOWN, BE ALERT and follow the MOVE OVER LAW. Lives depend on it.
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Gallery Credit: Matt Ryan