Traffic fatalities are still a significant concern in NYC, ten years after the deployment of Vision Zero in 2014. While risks are on the decline, more than 2,555 motorists have been seriously injured in crashes between January 2022 and September 2023. By borough, the most injuries have occurred in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, followed by Manhattan and Staten Island.
According to recent data, the vast majority of all motorist fatalities occur between the hours of 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM and are related to speeding and reckless driving.
This article will discuss New York City car accident statistics and explore the main contributors that have led to fatalities in the area. If you or a loved one has been devastated by a car accident in NYC, contact us today for a free legal consultation.
New York City Car Accident Statistics
According to a statement from Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis RodrÃguez, traffic deaths in New York City have declined by 12% over the past ten years, a success attributed to various street redesigns. These redesigns include the reduction of speed limits and the implementation of speed cameras at locations known for high fatalities, which have proven to be highly effective in decreasing speeding.
Since Mayor Eric Adams implemented 24/7 speed camera enforcement in New York City, there has been a significant reduction in traffic fatalities in speed camera zones during extended hours, with upwards of a 25% reduction.
These improvements occurred after the legal operating hours of speed cameras were extended. Previously, speed cameras were only operational on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
| Reduction in Speeding by Location | |
| Location | Reduction in Speeding |
| Houston Street (Manhattan) | 96% |
| Cropsey Avenue (Brooklyn) | 84% |
| North Conduit Boulevard (Brooklyn) | 74% |
| Seagirt Boulevard (Queens) | 79% |
| Union Turnpike (Queens) | 83% |
| Bruckner Boulevard (Bronx) | 68% |
| Declines in Traffic Injuries by Location | |
| Location | Reduction in Traffic Injuries |
| Tremont Avenue (Bronx) | 45% |
| Kings Highway (Brooklyn) | 33% |
| Hylan Boulevard (Staten Island) | 19% |
| Queens Boulevard (Queens) | 16% |
| Amsterdam Avenue (Manhattan) | 18% |
Source: NYC DOT
NYC Car Accident Fatalities
While recent New York City car accident statistics show improvements, New York City’s traffic safety challenges remain a serious concern, with motor vehicle accidents being a leading cause of death among NYC residents. Despite efforts to improve road safety, fatal crashes continue to occur at an alarming rate, and more must be done to effect change.
Key NYC Statistics and Initiatives:
- Fatal Crashes: According to Vision Zero data for 2023, there were 112 traffic-related fatalities in New York City. Nearly 40% of accidents on city streets result in injuries or fatalities.
- Brooklyn’s High Fatality Rate: Brooklyn stands out as the borough with the highest number of fatal accidents. This has been attributed to a larger volume of car accidents and other factors such as poorly designed roads and high traffic density.
- Dusk and Darkness Campaign: New York City has launched its annual “Dusk and Darkness” public safety campaign, encouraging drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to be more aware of safety risks at dusk and night. This initiative is especially important as daylight saving time ends, which is known to increase risks for pedestrians and cyclists.
While New York City continues to make concerted efforts to reduce traffic fatalities through law enforcement, education, and infrastructure improvements, residents should continue to work with state and local governments to advocate for safer roads.
Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident in New York City?
Recent New York City car accident statistics reveal that road safety remains a major concern for NYC residents, with nearly four out of every ten accidents on city streets resulting in serious injury or death. Simply put, aggressive efforts need to be made to protect residents from the dangers of using NYC roads, as the losses in terms of lives and other personal damages are profound.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident in New York City, The Law Offices of Eric Richman offers expert legal advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Immediately following a car accident, you may have questions about your rights, the statute of limitations, and how to navigate the legal and financial challenges that arise. We can help.
Eric Richman’s team offers compassionate, expert legal representation for the New York City Area. To learn more, contact us for a free consultation or call us at (800) 801-9655.
