Drivers must pay attention to others on road

As summer approaches and more people become active and spend time outdoors, I thought it would be a good idea to bring up the issue of safe driving and sharing the road with cyclists and runners in the Monmouth County area.

As an avid cyclist and runner living in Freehold, I am often witness to driving practices that leave me wondering if some individuals have any consideration for others who have a legal right to use public roads.

It is all too common to see people driving and talking on a cell phone, or operating other devices, where they are obviously distracted from the most basic aspects of safe driving.

These unsafe driving practices are especially dangerous to cyclists, runners, pedestrians and others using the roads on a regular basis.

I have seen my share of close calls and accidents that could have been avoided if the motorist was simply paying more attention to the act of driving. New Jersey motor vehicle statistics indicate that excessive speed and driver inattentiveness are the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities.

It is a shame that many people have been injured or have lost their lives due to the carelessness or inattentiveness of others. By being alert and considerate while driving, we can all do our part to make the use of our roadways safer for all.
Stephen Cruz
Freehold Borough