Personal Injury Lawyers Bronx and Westchester County, New York

Pedestrian Deaths Rise in New York City Despite Vision Zero Initiatives

Close-up of a New York City pedestrian crossing signal showing the walk icon, set against a blurred backdrop of city billboards and buildings.

While New York City is known for its walkability, it has seen a troubling rise in fatal pedestrian accidents. That's despite a decade-long effort to reduce traffic fatalities. Pedestrian deaths increased by nearly 18% in 2024, with 119 fatalities compared to 101 the previous year. While overall traffic deaths declined slightly, the increase in pedestrian fatalities has sparked concerns about the city's ability to protect its residents and visitors on foot.

NYC launched its Vision Zero initiative in 2014 under former Mayor Bill de Blasio. The goal of this initiative was to eliminate traffic fatalities by redesigning streets, adding bike lanes, and expanding red-light and speed camera programs. Initially, the program showed promise, with traffic deaths dropping to an average of 231 annually in its first five years. In 2018, fatalities hit a record low of 206.

However, progress has stalled. From 2019 to 2024, the average number of annual traffic deaths climbed to around 250. Advocacy groups argue that the initiative has lost momentum and needs bold new strategies to address changing traffic patterns and urban dynamics.

What is the cause of most NYC pedestrian deaths?

Several factors have contributed to the surge in pedestrian fatalities, including:

  • E-Bikes and scooters: The growing use of mechanized vehicles like e-bikes and scooters has dramatically altered the city's streetscape, which has created more risks for pedestrians.
  • Larger vehicles: Heavier vehicles increase the severity of collisions, especially SUVs and trucks with flat-front designs. These designs make it more likely for pedestrians to be pulled under vehicles rather than flipped onto the hood.
  • Street congestion: More people are walking and biking on streets that are also experiencing increased vehicle traffic and more potential conflicts.

What efforts are being made to reduce pedestrian deaths?

City and state officials have recently taken measures to promote better safety on NYC streets. One of them is "Sammy's Law," a legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, which allows the city to lower speed limits to 20 mph on most streets. It honors Sammy Cohen Eckstein, a boy who was tragically killed by a van in 2013.

Additionally, the city added more protected bike lanes and expanded pedestrian spaces in 2023 and 2024. That includes 1.4 million square feet of public space over the last three years. The city has also expanded its speed and red-light camera programs to deter reckless driving.

More recently, Mayor Eric Adams’ administration reports an 8% decline in traffic fatalities since he took office in 2022, along with a 17% drop in deaths among older pedestrians. However, critics say his promises to build 300 miles of protected bike lanes have progressed too slowly.

Moreover, critics argue that while the city and state's measures are beneficial, they're not enough. Advocacy groups such as Transportation Alternatives and Riders Alliance have called for faster implementation of safety improvements. Their suggestions include:

  • Raised crosswalks and curb extensions that can slow down vehicles and make pedestrians more visible.
  • Better traffic signals to give pedestrians more time to cross streets.
  • Congestion pricing to reduce traffic in crowded areas.
  • Redesigning streets with narrower lanes.
  • Installing physical barriers to prevent reckless driving.
  • Taking heightened safety measures during high-risk times such as school dismissals and evening rush hours.

Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer if you've been injured

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in the Bronx, it’s time to take action. The attorneys at Giampa Law have seen how devastating pedestrian accidents in NYC can be. We know how to deal with uncooperative drivers and insurance companies that try to reduce or deny claims.

We have decades of experience advocating for injured pedestrians throughout the city, and our case results speak for themselves. We’ve recovered millions for clients, including a $1.5 million verdict and a $1.3 million settlement for pedestrian accident victims in Bronx County.

When you choose our law firm, you don’t have to worry about upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We'll handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial.

Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Schedule a free consultation with Giampa Law today. Contact us online or give us a call to take the first step toward justice and the financial recovery you deserve.

"I was involved in a car accident in 2019, and a friend introduced me to Giampa Law; from my first conversation with them, I felt that I could relax and they would get the job done! They were holding my hands all the time and always responded to any questions I had!" – BH, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Categories: Posts