As elections approach, officials are encouraging eligible voters to take advantage of early voting opportunities available in many communities.

Early voting allows residents to cast their ballots before Election Day, providing greater flexibility and helping voters avoid potential long lines at polling places. Election officials say voting early can also reduce scheduling conflicts and ensure voters have ample time to participate in the democratic process.

Voters are encouraged to verify their registration status, review polling locations and hours, and check any identification requirements before heading to an early voting site.

Election administrators remind residents that whether a ballot is cast early or on Election Day, every vote plays an important role in shaping the future of local, state, and national government.

Rockland County officials are reminding residents to stay vigilant on roadways as pedestrian crashes continue to result in serious injuries and fatalities across New York State.

According to the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository, more than 300 pedestrians are killed and thousands more are injured on New York roadways each year. In Rockland County alone, 208 pedestrians were killed or injured in traffic crashes during 2024.

Pedestrians account for nearly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities statewide, highlighting the importance of safety measures for both drivers and those traveling on foot.

Safety officials say many pedestrian crashes occur at intersections or while crossing roadways. Common contributing factors include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, alcohol use, and inadequate crossing infrastructure.

To help reduce the risk of crashes, Rockland County is encouraging pedestrians to follow several key safety practices:

• Cross at intersections or marked crosswalks whenever possible.
• Obey pedestrian traffic signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers before entering a roadway.
• Avoid distractions such as texting or listening to music while walking.
• Wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight when walking at night.
• Walk facing oncoming traffic when sidewalks are unavailable.

County officials emphasize that improving pedestrian safety requires a collaborative effort involving education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. Rockland County continues to support public awareness campaigns and targeted traffic enforcement initiatives aimed at reducing pedestrian-related crashes.

Officials are urging all residents—whether driving, cycling, or walking—to remain alert and follow traffic laws to help prevent avoidable tragedies.

“Eyes on the Road, Rockland. Stay alert. Follow the rules. Look out for one another.”

The pedestrian safety campaign is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through a grant from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

Additional pedestrian safety information is available through the Rockland County Safe Streets program.