An important component of New York City’s Vision Zero plan to reduce all traffic fatalities to zero is open and available reporting. To that end, the “Vision Zero View” interactive map allows users to see traffic crash data depicted as color-coded dot. While the tool was designed to emphasize the need for safety improvements, it can also be used to plot out “danger zones”-streets that have higher than average numbers of pedestrian accidents in New York City.
Where are the Most Dangerous Streets in NYC?
It’s not surprising that Downtown Brooklyn and Midtown Manhattan appear bright orange on the map. These locations have been ground zero for pedestrian injuries and fatalities for decades, representing a significant portion of the total number citywide. And, as you’d expect, high-traffic areas tend to feature prominently in this list of most dangerous streets in NYC.
West 42nd Street is a perennial hazard in Manhattan (as are 3rd and 8th Avenues). This may be partially due to high volumes of tourist unfamiliar with walking on city streets, however, even when you get into “native” territory like Brooklyn pedestrians simply aren’t safe. In fact, Division Ave in Williamsburg and Flatbush Avenue compete for the honor of being the most dangerous in this most “New York” of Burroughs. And if you call the Bronx home, East Fordham Road-the road some call a “racetrack” should be tread only with care.
The real takeaway from viewing the Vision Zero map is that no street is really ever safe. To date in 2017, there have been 2,100 injuries resulting from pedestrian accidents in New York City and 75 fatalities.
Also, keep in mind that an injured bicyclist is entitled to no-fault benefits from the insurance company for car that was involved in the accident which will pay for medical bills as well as up to $2,00 a month for lost wages.
If you’ve been injured by a careless driver, consult an expert New York City pedestrian accident attorney.