Pedestrian accident fatalities have surged in New York City this year, raising serious concerns among residents and officials alike. The latest data from Vision Zero and Transportation Alternatives for the first half of the year reveals a troubling trend: pedestrian deaths are on track to make 2024 the deadliest year for traffic-related fatalities since the inception of Vision Zero.
“At the current rate of fatalities, 2024 is on pace to be the deadliest year for traffic violence in the Vision Zero era, which should alarm all New Yorkers,” NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said in an interview with The New York Post. “This is not the direction we should be moving in, and as a city, we must not reverse the important progress we have made over the past decade to become a safer city.”
NYC pedestrian fatalities increase by 27%
Pedestrian safety in New York City is under serious threat this year, with fatalities increasing at an alarming rate. In the first six months of 2024, 61 pedestrians lost their lives after being hit by vehicles, according to Transportation Alternatives. This marks a staggering 27% increase compared to the same period in 2023 when 48 pedestrian fatalities were reported.
The grim statistics don't stop there. Overall, 127 people who were not in cars, including pedestrians and cyclists, were killed by vehicles between January and June of this year. This makes the first half of 2024 the deadliest six-month period for pedestrians and cyclists since the Vision Zero program was launched in NYC in 2014.
Vision Zero, initiated in 2014, seeks to reduce bicycle and pedestrian fatalities to zero. However, the sharp rise in deaths this year signals a significant setback in the program's goals.
Why are pedestrian accidents higher in NYC?
Public safety officials in New York City have identified several critical factors contributing to the alarming increase in pedestrian accident fatalities this year:
- Traffic Congestion: With more vehicles and pedestrians sharing the road, the risk of accidents rises sharply. The dense traffic conditions in NYC create dangerous situations where pedestrians are more likely to be struck by vehicles.
- Poor Visibility at Crosswalks: Many crosswalks in the city suffer from poor visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians crossing the street, particularly at busy intersections. This lack of visibility increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Speeding Drivers: Speeding remains a significant issue in NYC, with drivers often unable to slow down in time to avoid hitting pedestrians. High speeds reduce reaction times and increase the severity of accidents when they occur.
- Inadequate Lighting: Some streets and intersections in New York City are poorly lit, making it challenging for both drivers and pedestrians to see each other, especially at night. This lack of proper lighting is a key factor in many pedestrian accidents.
- Lack of Infrastructure: The city still has a significant deficit in infrastructure designed to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
Which parts of NYC have the most pedestrian accidents?
While pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere in New York City, certain areas are particularly dangerous:
- Midtown Manhattan: This area has been especially dangerous for pedestrians, with 74 fatalities since 2019. The high density of both foot traffic and vehicles in Midtown creates a hazardous environment where accidents are more likely to occur.
- Brooklyn: This year marks the deadliest six-month period for pedestrian accidents in Brooklyn since the Vision Zero initiative was implemented in 2014. The borough's growing population and busy streets contribute to a higher risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Queens: Queens has seen a disturbing rise in pedestrian fatalities, with twice as many deaths in the first six months of this year compared to 2017, which was the safest year for pedestrians in the borough. Overall, pedestrian fatalities in Queens for the first half of this year are 33% higher than the average, indicating a troubling trend.
What should pedestrians do after an accident in NYC?
If a pedestrian is hit by a car in New York City, taking immediate action is crucial to protect both their health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 Immediately: The first step is to call 911 and request that a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer be dispatched to the scene. Reporting the accident officially is essential for documentation and initiating an investigation.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s important to have a medical professional examine the pedestrian as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can become serious if left untreated.
- Ensure the Driver Stays at the Scene: In New York, it's illegal for a driver to leave the scene of an accident, especially one involving a pedestrian. Make sure the driver remains until authorities arrive. If the incident involves a hit-and-run driver, note as many details about the vehicle as possible.
- Collect the Driver’s Information: Obtain the at-fault driver’s name, address, phone number, and driver’s license information. This information will be essential for filing a claim or legal action.
- Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their full names and phone numbers. Witness statements can be crucial for investigations and supporting your case.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney: As soon as possible, contact a skilled pedestrian accident attorney in New York City. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and protect your rights.
Giampa Law fights for injured pedestrians
At Giampa Law, our attorneys have a proven track record of fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians across New York City. With years of experience, we’ve secured significant victories for our clients, including a $1.5 million verdict for a pedestrian injured in the Bronx and a $1.3 million settlement for another injured pedestrian.
When you need a law firm that delivers results, trust Giampa Law. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer who will stand by you during this difficult time. We handle injury claims throughout New York on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we secure a financial settlement or verdict for you. It’s that straightforward.