A new bill introduced in the New York State Legislature aims to honor victims of fatal vehicle collisions while raising awareness about the dangers of reckless and impaired driving. The “Alexander John Smullen Traffic Safety Memorial Law” (A.3938) would create a program allowing families to install roadside memorial signs to commemorate lost loved ones.
Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) has voiced strong support for the bill, which has bipartisan backing. “Prioritizing traffic safety to keep both drivers and pedestrians safe statewide is critical,” Gallahan said. “This law will help educate the public, memorialize the victims of vehicle-related deaths, and reduce future vehicle accidents.”
The law is named after 14-year-old Alexander John “AJ” Smullen, who died in March 2024 after being struck by a car in Albany. His case is one of many highlighting a troubling trend—motor vehicle fatalities in New York have risen by nearly 26% since 2019, according to a report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. In 2022 alone, the state saw 1,175 traffic-related deaths, the highest number in nearly a decade.
Under the proposed program, families could apply for a sign to be installed for two years at the crash site. The signs would feature the victim’s name along with safety messages such as “Please Don’t Drink and Drive” or “Reckless Driving Costs Lives.” After two years, the sign could either be removed or given to the applicant as a keepsake.
Supporters argue that these memorials will serve as powerful reminders to drivers about the real consequences of unsafe driving behaviors. Beyond honoring victims, lawmakers believe the visibility of the signs could contribute to reducing crashes caused by speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence.
The bill is currently under consideration in the Assembly’s Transportation Committee. If passed, the law would take effect 180 days after being signed.
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