A pedestrian was struck by an SUV that stayed at...

A pedestrian was struck by an SUV that stayed at the scene on Route 110 in front of Farmingdale State College, in September 2022. Credit: Paul Mazza

Walkers should be wary of drivers

I am 69 and have managed to not be hit by a motor vehicle my whole life [“Higher vehicles linked to pedestrian deaths,” News, March 19].

I came close once as a kid riding my bike out of a wooded path onto a not-so-busy street. I learned at an early age to be aware and always give motor vehicle traffic the right-of-way.

Even today, when riding a bike, I stop and let traffic pass even if I have the right-of-way. The past few years, many pedestrians seem to think they have the right-of-way and don’t give a good look in the street or even a parking lot. People walk into traffic without even looking to see who is coming.

Even at a crosswalk or a traffic light, pedestrians should never assume oncoming traffic will stop although drivers are supposed to.

People should take responsibility for their actions and not depend on others for safety. Of course, pedestrian deaths are also caused by drivers when nothing could have been done to avoid it.

— Steve Kelske, Bohemia

He doesn’t speak for Jews or Dems

I am proudly Jewish, and I am also a proud Democrat. In no way, though, do I hate Israel [“Trump: Jews backing Dems ‘hate Israel,’ ” Nation, March 20].

How dare former President Donald Trump attempt to speak for me or other Jewish people on such an important issue.

If he is foolish enough to think he can speak for us, he does not deserve our support, our votes or even our recognition. We are a strong people and can easily speak for ourselves.

— Fern Summer, North Bellmore

Residents paying for MTA upgrades?

Local communities are sharing benefits from $16 million for park upgrades, pickleball courts, etc. to get local officials to permit the LIRR Third Track project to proceed [“$16M in projects to gain Third Track support,” News, March 24].

Should the Metropolitan Transportation Authority be able to “bribe” local officials with money from fares? In effect, will this yield yet another fare or tax increase?

— Gary Maksym, Massapequa

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