In New York, more and more people have taken to riding bikes around the city, as bus and subway delays have led to commuter frustration. Additionally, bike-sharing programs, such as Citi Bike, have made these two-wheeled forms of transportation accessible to many more individuals. Every day, nearly 460,000 people ride their bikes around the city, nearly 300,000 more than in 2006.
The increase in cyclists sharing the road with motorists has also led to a rise in traffic accidents, and cyclists have suffered serious harm as a result.
The most common bicycle-related injuries include:
- Head
- Neck
- Back
- Chest
- Knee
- Foot/ankle
- Hand
- Dental
Tragically, several accidents have also resulted in death. As of August of 2019, 18 cyclists have been struck and killed on New York City’s streets. Unfortunately, that’s almost double the total number of biker fatalities in all of 2018.
Bike Safety Plan
Outraged by the uptick in bicycle accidents, New Yorkers have demanded a solution to make the city’s streets safer. In response, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a $58.4 million plan to increase bike safety.
The 5-year initiative will implement various biker-friendly measures. Efforts include installing 150 miles of protected bike lanes, which means placing physical barriers between city streets and designated bicycle areas. Currently, only 480 miles of the city’s 1,243 miles of bike lanes are protected.
The program will also allow transportation officials to make bicyclists more visible by creating bike boxes that will alert turning motorists to riders on the road. Bike lanes will also be painted green to make them more visible.
Also, traffic enforcement in areas with a high number of cyclists will also be increased.
For Legal Representation, Schedule a Free Consultation with Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law
Unfortunately, because of the crowded streets of New York City, accidents involving bicyclists have increased, which often result in injury or death. When someone else’s negligence causes a collision, the injured individual or their family might be entitled to pursue civil action and recover compensation for damages.
If you or a loved one was harmed in an accident, contact our attorneys for the compassionate legal counsel you need to pursue justice. We will fight relentlessly on your behalf to seek a favorable settlement in your case.
Speak with a member of our experienced team by calling us at (201) 870-1909 or contacting us online.