Both victims are expected to need long-term care to recover.

The driver charged in the crash apparently had previous convictions for drunk driving within the past 10 years.

What is unusual about the police press release is that it does not cite typical drunk driving statistics that show how many lives are lost or how many people end up in emergency rooms because of it. irresponsible behavior.

They did not list potential penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol — including jail time, hefty fines, legal fees and loss of licenses — as a way to discourage people from cause future tragedies.

They did not cite state law requiring drivers to move to a distant lane to make room for vehicles stopped along the roadway.

All of this information is legitimate to include in a press release about the type of accidents that happen too often and are 100% preventable.

But police, in their press release, decided instead to focus on the next person likely to get behind the wheel in an unstable physical state, emphasizing “the importance of seeking treatment for substance or alcohol dependence.” ‘alcohol “.

The press release further encourages addicted people to get help, providing the free and confidential HOPEline and the New York State Office of Substance Abuse Services and Supports (OASAS) website — 1-877-846-7369; https://oasas.ny.gov/treatment.

Severe penalties aimed at discouraging driving under the influence have a deterrent effect. Statistics on the number of deaths and injuries can remind people of the scale of the problem. Reminding people of their obligations to travel and avoid endangering officers, tow truck drivers, emergency workers, road crews and other motorists could require someone to take this precaution.

But none of these traditional tactics address the underlying problem that often leads to such tragedies: the problem of addiction.

Reminding people addicted to alcohol or drugs that help is available could be another factor in preventing a future accident of this type.

This is a wise and enlightened approach to a pervasive problem, and police should be commended for including it in their latest efforts to protect themselves and the public from the dangers of impaired drivers.