New York City sees highest bicyclist death toll in over a decade
There have been 11 bicyclists killed in New York City so far in 2023, according to the city Department of Transportation (DOT). It’s the highest death toll for that period in over a decade and puts the city on pace for a record high. DOT officials said it was too early to identify any trends.
“The cyclist fatalities this year have been heartbreaking,” said agency spokesman Vin Barone. “DOT works every day to curb traffic fatalities through Vision Zero, including building high-quality bike lanes; installing barriers along existing lanes; and developing new designs to support the growing use of micro-mobility.”
Advocates alarmed by the increase in fatalities
According to the city’s Vision Zero website, there are about 1,500 miles of dedicated cycling space in New York City, including 623 miles of protected bicycle lanes.
But bicycle safety advocates called on the city to do more.
“Mayor Adams and Department of Transportation Commissioner [Ydanis] Rodriguez must build physical infrastructure to protect people riding bikes, especially in areas the city knows to be dangerous, and meet the NYC Streets Plan requirement of 50 miles of protected bike lanes this year,” said Jacob DeCastro, spokesman of Transportation Alternatives.
Although monthly data on bicycle accident deaths has only been available since 2013, 1999 remains the deadliest year on record with 40 fatalities. In recent years, 2019 had the worst start with six deaths recorded through April 5. That year, there were a total of 28 bicyclist fatalities.
Injuries also see an increase
The deaths this year occurred in both residential and commercial areas. Accidents included:
- A 62-year-old bicyclist was struck and killed by a cement truck
- A Brooklyn mom was struck by a truck on an unprotected stretch of Ninth Street
- A bicyclist was struck by a reckless SUV driver on a quiet street in Staten Island
- A hit-and-run driver struck a delivery worker in The Bronx
- A 16-year-old was struck by a hit-and-run SUV driver in Queens
Injuries rose 18 percent among bicyclists year-to-date through April 2, according to data from the New York Police Department.
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident in the Bronx, Valhalla, or anywhere in Westchester County, NY – or you lost a loved one in a fatal accident – it’s important to get trusted legal advice.
Contact a Bronx bicycle accident attorney
Holding negligent drivers accountable is complicated. They often deny doing anything wrong, even if they were speeding, driving recklessly, or driving while distracted. Insurance companies will try to pay you as little as possible in financial compensation.
That’s why you need an experienced bicycle attorney who knows how to get results. At Giampa Law, we understand how to investigate accidents and gather evidence that can prove negligence. We carefully review accident reports, interview witnesses, and, if needed, consult experts.
You can expect personal attention, updates on the progress of your case, and aggressive representation from an attorney dedicated to helping you get the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can review the details of your accident, discuss your legal options for recovering compensation, and answer any questions you have.