2013 NYC Pedestrian and Cyclist Injuries Highest in 5 Years

According to a report by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, more pedestrians and cyclists were injured in New York City last year than in the previous five years. The stats reveal that total traffic injuries increased by about 2% from 2012 to 2013, with pedestrians and cyclists bearing the brunt of it. Pedestrian injuries were up 5% and cyclist injuries rose an alarming 8%!

Sadly, children accounted for many of the injuries as NYC drivers injured 4,278 children aged 13 and under—8 of whom were killed. In fact, motor vehicle crashes have consistently been the leading cause of death due to injury for children within the 5 boroughs.

The causes behind these accidents include: speeding, cited as a factor in 69 of 281 fatal crashes; driver inattention – responsible for 49 crashes; and failure to yield.

These injuries and fatalities can be avoided.  Using caution while driving, adhering to the posted speed limits, and avoiding distractions while driving is vital in order to prevent such tragedies.

Mayor de Blasio’s Vision Zero agenda of increased enforcement has made many motorists more vigilant in their adherence to traffic laws.  Although many speculate that this agenda is really a way to raise revenue for the city, newly released NYC traffic crash data reveals that promoting motorist compliance with traffic laws is now more necessary than ever, even if it is the fear of receiving a traffic that will ultimately drive motorists to obey the law.

Whether you agree with increased enforcement or not, I think we can all agree that the goal of making the city’s streets safer is a positive objective. And although more traffic citations will be the likely outcome of this agenda, it might be precisely the kind of the deterrence that is necessary to save lives and prevent injury.

That said, even safe drivers receive tickets sometimes. If you have received a NY traffic ticket contact Rosenblum Law at 888-434-0406 for a free consultation with an experienced and dedicated traffic attorney.