Bronx Times wrote an article covering issues about truck drivers parking their rigs in residential neighborhoods. It looks like a bill is being introduced to Governor Paterson, governor of New York State, which would impose harsh penalties to those drivers that illegally park their trucks on residential streets.
According to the article, there are several locations in the New York City area that have safety issues because of the tractor-trailers blocking views. There is already a fine of $50 for the first offense, but the legislation wants to raise that cost to $250 for first offenses and $500 for second offenses if within 6 months of the first offense.
It looks like elected officials in the New York City areas have been receiving continuous complaints about trucks that are illegally parked. The trucks are taking up limited parking and creating visibility issues around corners. The residents are not happy and are complaining. They want the trucks parked elsewhere. Places like industry parking lots where they are not a safety issue and do not take valuable parking away from the residents of the neighborhoods.
Truck driving in an around the New York area is less problematic than many drivers make it seem. Being aware of local parking laws can eliminate some of the headaches that come with driving around the city.
It’s interesting that when research was taken, the city governments learned that the $50 overnight parking fine is actually cheaper than the permits to allow parking of these commercial vehicles. That’s the reason for raising the fines to $250 and $500.
Councilman Jimmy Vacca stated:
“For too long, low fines have given tractor-trailer drivers no incentive to abide by the law and stay off of local streets. The result has been an eyesore for communities and a safety hazards for pedestrians and motorists.”
http://www.yournabe.com/articles/2010/08/28/bronx/bronxtimes-yn_bronx_front_page-34-trucks.txt
