Tow Truck Drivers Must Clear Suffolk Crash Sites, New Bill Requires

HAUPPAUGE, NY — Tow truck drivers will now be required to clean up crash sites in Suffolk County, effective immediately, after a bill was signed by Executive Steve Bellone on Wednesday.

The legislation aims to improve road safety at crash scenes by requiring all tow truck drivers to remove glass, car pieces, road flares and other debris. Legislator Nick Caracappa sponsored the bill.

There have been 29,000 accidents this year in Suffolk, Bellone said, adding that it can be "dangerous" on county roadways.

"The debris that results from those accidents, ultimately, if not cleaned up, if not taken care of appropriately, can lead to other accidents," Bellone said. "That's what this legislation is about. We've had tow truck operators that do the right thing. But as with anything else, you have others who aren't necessarily doing what needs to be done. This legislation will take care of that. We'll provide the teeth necessary for enforcement and for law enforcement to do what they need to do and undoubtedly will enhance public safety out on our roadways."

Bellone called the bill "critically important."

Caracappa said Bellone gave an "immediate 'yes'" to his proposed legislation. The bill was passed unanimously by the Suffolk County Legislature.

Caracappa called his legislation a "common-sense bill;" one that is about safety and quality of life.

"This is about inherently protecting our loved ones, our tourists, and anybody who utilizes our county roadways," Caracappa said. "Debris left over from a motor vehicle accident is not only an eyesore, it's a safety issue. It's what can lead to another accident, what can lead to a vehicle swerving out of the way of this debris and maybe coming in contact with a pedestrian, a bicyclist, a child walking home from school."

Caracappa said when he told people about his proposal, most told him they believed that tow truck drivers were already required by law to clear crash sites. It now is law, and there will be penalties for tow truck drivers who shirk the legislation, Caracappa said.