DOT worker struck by drunk driver was local union vice-president
Randolph Acum was responding to a drunk driving crash when he was hit by another drunk driver Thursday night.
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A DOT worker seriously injured by a suspected drunk driver on the Long Island Expressway has now been identified as Randolph Acum, the vice president of a local union.
“We’re dealing with motorists that do not respect us. They do not slow down,” said Richard Allen, president of Civil Service Employees Association Local 508.
Allen is pleading with drivers to give workers the respect he says they deserve. He says it’s a dangerous job, and people need to give them the same courtesy on the road as law enforcement or first responders.
“I take this very personally,” Allen said. “Long Island Department of Transportation is a beautiful family. We see them, and we respect them. And they should be respected too…. Give us space to do our jobs so we can go home safely to our families.”
Joseph Kalinowski is accused of driving drunk when he struck Acum Thursday night in Holtsville. He appeared in court on Friday. Prosecutors say this wasn't his first DWI. A judge suspended Kalinowski's license and released him with supervision.
“I don’t think the penalties are strict enough,” said Jonathan, of Farmingville. “And if they were, I think people would definitely think about it. Because you know most people who get DWIs are out the next day.”
“There’s no excuse,” said Chris Young, of Centereach. “If you have enough money to go out and drink, you have enough money to get a ride home.”
Investigators say Acum was hit while putting up traffic cones following another crash. Police say that this driver was also drunk. He's been identified as Luis Llumitasigsillagana, of Mastic Beach.
Acum was taken to the hospital with serious injuries Thursday night. Prosecutors said he broke multiple bones and may have a brain bleed.
