Two New York State Police Cars Collide with Alleged Drunk Driver
Two New York State Police vehicles were struck by an alleged drunk driver while they were investigating another drunk driving incident.
According to a release from the New York State Police, on Saturday, Nov. 16 at approximately 12 a.m., two troopers were struck by a 2004 gray Toyota RAV4 on the parkway in Babylon, New York.
The crash occurred while the officers were responding to an earlier incident involving a 2018 GMC Arcadia that had crashed into a Department of Transportation light tower within a work zone.
A Sudden Turn of Events
While the troopers were focused on the civilian situation, 72-year-old Jaikaran Ramrookum suddenly collided with the patrol vehicles. The force of the impact flung one cruiser into the other, resulting in significant damage to both police vehicles and the RAV4.
Images shared by the state police depicted the aftermath of this incident, revealing the extent of the damage that left the law enforcement vehicles and the SUV in ruins.
In the Line of Duty
In an act of duty and quick response, the troopers immediately tended to the civilians involved, only to later discover that they themselves had sustained minor injuries. “It was only after their adrenaline began to subside that they recognized their own injuries,” the official release stated.
All individuals were subsequently transported to local hospitals, fortunately with non-life-threatening injuries. Safety measures seem ironic, yet the troopers remained focused on safeguarding the community.
A Warning Against Impaired Driving
Ramrookum now faces charges for Driving Under the Influence, categorized as an Unclassified Misdemeanor. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed when individuals choose to drive while impaired. The New York State Police expressed their disappointment, emphasizing the need for responsible decision-making.
“This situation is a serious and unfortunate one,” the police stated. “It is disheartening when individuals make choices that endanger the lives of others, especially those working diligently to enhance our roadways and protect the public.”
This unfortunate event encourages reflections on the importance of driving sober. The admonition to be aware of one’s surroundings resonates loudly, as local businesses and families remain affected by the ripple effects of such reckless behavior. A random fact to consider: Approximately 29 people die daily in the United States due to alcohol-impaired driving crashes, underscoring the urgency of this message.
It’s a sobering reality that impaired driving, while entirely preventable, brings about not only legal consequences but potential tragedy. Let us all strive to embrace a culture of safe driving, for the road belongs to us all.
