Underage driving is an issue in the catskills.
Additionally, as one who spends all week in the mountains, and not just on weekends, I have to add that there are other dangers as well.
1. Drivers picking up hitchhikers at dangerous places in the road. Such as right over the top of a hill, or in middle of the road! Or right around the bend. When one is driving at 55 and there is oncoming traffic there is often no where to swerve to.
Yes, it’s a great idea to give people a ride especially when it’s hot outside. BUT SAFETY FIRST!!!
2. The walkers. Askonim should really petition the gedolim to ban this just as they banned underage drivers. I can’t tell you how many times I came around a curve only to find three women with little children and strollers walking halfway across the lane. Unfortunately, ‘chayecha kodmim’ and if there is no where safe to pass, these people may be responsible for their lives. This is a really serious issue.
3. Lastly, drivers of all ages (and particularly women) who are not accustomed to driving on any highways, and certainly not on curvy roads, (as they do not exist in brooklyn) are suddenly driving these roads in an unfamiliar environment. They are not used to driving at speeds over 20-30 MPH, and thus misjudge the speed at which oncoming cars approach. This holds true when merging into traffic, turning onto a road with oncoming traffic, and even crossing the street.
These are serious dangers that we all must be aware of when traveling upstate this summer.