Wrong-way driving solutions offered

The issue of wrong-way driving needs to be seriously addressed ["DA and sheriff battle Levy: They say more deputies needed for patrols," News, Dec. 22]. I would rather have more enforcement officers to prevent crime and keep our communities safe than watching our entrance and exit ramps to highways.

One less expensive suggestion would be to install rumble strips - those ridges in the road that create a sound and vibration when run over. This can serve two purposes: 1) to "wake up" and alert the wrong-way driver, and 2) to slow down the vehicle exiting the highway and merging onto a slower-speed road.

If it wakes up a drunk driver or a wrong-way driver, it is worth the slight inconvenience to exiting traffic.

Another possible solution would be to replace the "Do Not Enter" and "Wrong Way" signs with flashing signs. When a driver enters in the wrong direction, the sign would light up and flash.

A more dramatic, and possibly more effective, solution would be to completely stop drivers from entering a highway ramp the wrong way. Officials could install a gate on the exit ramp. An electric eye would recognize an exiting vehicle and open the gate. A wrong-way driver would not be allowed through.

Elysa Parker

North Woodmere

Some traffic lights now have a bright strobe light that flashes when it turns red. This is to help ensure that drivers can't miss the red light.

Adding bright strobe lights that flash on the "wrong way" signs might also help keep drivers from entering the wrong direction of major highways.

Peter Haynes

Bayport

There have been several alcohol-related wrong-way traffic fatalities on Long Island in recent months. A 2006 Gallop Poll shows that 14 percent of American adults admit to drinking in excess at least some of the time, while Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy says that 1 percent of the population has this condition.

Having a medical condition is not something people choose, but drinking alcohol is voluntary. Yet people whose histories include even the slightest incidence of treatment for medical issues described on license applications as "convulsive disorders, epilepsy, fainting or dizzy spells, or any condition which causes unconsciousness" are screened under the threat of criminal prosecution if they withhold disclosure when applying for driver's licenses. Meanwhile, people whose histories include the consumption or abuse of alcohol are not required to disclose anything.

Shouldn't the Department of Motor Vehicles be subjecting license applicants who drink alcohol to reporting and certification requirements at least as burdensome?

Ken Gillespie

Freeport