There are many cars that travel on the streets of New York City, but many pedestrians also use those streets to get around the city. Although one would expect the streets to be safe for pedestrians, a newly released study has found that certain areas are particularly dangerous.
Earlier this month, a 12-year-old girl was hit and killed by a minivan in lower Manhattan. According to reports, the car accident occurred as she was trying to cross nine lanes of traffic on Delancy Street. She was brought to a local hospital after the accident, but later succumbed to her injuries. The tragic accident serves as a reminder just how dangerous the streets of New York City can be, especially for children.
A study by the Transportation Alternatives group found that the streets of New York City are particularly dangerous for children living in low-income communities. According to the study, a pedestrian accident in East Harlem is three times more likely to involve a child than in the Upper East Side. The intersection at East 125th Street and Lexington appears to be one of the deadliest areas in Manhattan.
One city council member says that immediate action is needed. She suggests officials crack down on unsafe driving habits, as well as develop better traffic patterns in areas that are more dangerous than others.
An official with Transportation Alternatives went so far as to say that the New York City Police Department must do what they can to protect young children by holding drivers who are reckless and dangerous accountable for their actions.
Source: CBSNewYork, “Report: Children In Low-Income Areas More Likely To Be Struck By Cars,” Jan. 19, 2012