To the Editor:

Caution to all drivers on Western Avenue from the Northway to Route 155. Of late, the center turn lane has become more of a high speed passing zone than in the past. We have all seen and experienced it. 

Two weeks ago, I narrowly missed being seriously injured or killed as I was preparing to merge into the center turn lane to make a left onto my street. A gray pickup truck came out of nowhere and was passing cars going east by using the turn lane.

I saw him when he was about three feet away and managed to avoid a collision. I watched him go past and he stayed in the turn lane past the light at Cumberland Farms. 

I called and spoke to the Guilderland Police Department, and a nice officer informed me that, on that day alone, he had issued over 15 tickets, and some were for the turn-lane violations. They can only do so much and have a large area to cover. 

With all the new construction going on from Johnston Road towards the Northway, it’s only going to get worse. Take your time, be diligent in your driving, and look ahead as you make your turns. 

Also stop for the school buses when they are stopped, lights flashing and the stop sign arm is out. I have seen cars just failing to stop.

Craig Bousquet

Guilderland