By Hank Russell
A state trooper was hospitalized after being struck from behind by a distracted driver on the Southern State Parkway.
On April 12 at approximately 5:43 a.m., New York State Police responded to the eastbound Southern State Parkway just west of exit 14 in North Valley Stream for a motor vehicle collision.
Troopers positioned their marked troop cars to safely assist with traffic control due to the hazardous location.
At approximately 5:47 am, a gray Jeep Wrangler struck the rear of the marked NYSP car. The impact caused the car to be pushed a significant distance from the right lane to the center and left lanes. The Jeep left the roadway and came to rest on the right shoulder.
According to the NYSP, the driver of the Jeep, Monica Diaz Cabrera, said she became distracted when she was adjusting her boot and socks inside the vehicle at the time of the collision.
Diaz Cabera, 26, were transported to local hospitals and treated for non-life-threatening injuries. They were later released.
“The New York State Police remind motorists that distracted driving remains to be a top cause of roadway collisions and creates serious danger to first responders and the public,” said NYSP Troop L in a statement. “Drivers must remain alert, avoid distractions, and stay focused on the roadway at all times.”
Long Island Life & Politics asked state police if any charges were field against the driver. The agecy did not respond as of press time.