While the winter months certainly present challenges for motorists, spring driving has its dangers as well. We’ve seen the recent fatal accidents in our area, and we hope efforts at the state and local levels will lead to safer roadways for all.

From vehicles to bicyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians, all travelers have to remain vigilant as the weather continues to improve and the streets become more crowded. For teen drivers in particular, the spring months can be dangerous times to be on the road with proms and graduations on the horizon.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has the right idea with this week’s No Empty Chair campaign focused on teen driving education and law enforcement. The initiative aims to ensure schools won’t have empty chairs at proms or graduations this year, according to Cuomo’s office.

Cuomo’s campaign has targeted speeding in school zones, seat belt and child restraint enforcement, cellphone use while driving, illegally passing school buses and underage drinking and impaired driving. In reported personal-injury and fatal accidents, teen drivers have been very likely to follow too closely, speed, fail to yield the right-of-way and become distracted, the governor’s office said.

Teen drivers, equipped with car keys for the first time, have much to be excited about in the coming months, but the importance of making safe decisions cannot be understated. That’s why we appreciate the efforts of law enforcement, local schools and the governor to educate young drivers on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.

We commend those who organize after-prom parties and senior vigils that help students make safe choices. Starflight’s mock DWI fatal crash presentations continue to warn motorists of the risks of drunk driving. With the collaborative efforts of many, young drivers can have a fun, but safe, spring in Western New York.