Lower the Speed, Save a Life—Or Bury Another Neighbor

Sep 20 - A 61-year-old man was struck while crossing Amsterdam Avenue. He suffered bruises and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian was conscious and injured outside an intersection.

According to the police report, a 61-year-old male pedestrian was injured while crossing Amsterdam Avenue outside an intersection. He sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The vehicle involved was traveling west, going straight ahead, and showed no damage upon impact. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the pedestrian's injury. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were noted. The pedestrian was conscious at the scene. The vehicle had one occupant and no damage was recorded at the point of impact.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4566179 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Sep 17 - A sedan making a U-turn struck a southbound moped on West End Avenue. The impact hit the sedan’s left side doors and the moped’s front center. A 21-year-old female passenger on the moped suffered knee and lower leg bruises. No ejections occurred.

According to the police report, a 2022 Kia sedan was making a U-turn on West End Avenue in Manhattan when it collided with a southbound moped traveling straight ahead. The point of impact was the sedan’s left side doors and the moped’s center front end. The moped carried two occupants, including a 21-year-old female passenger who was injured with contusions to her knee and lower leg. She was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. The report lists no specific contributing factors, but the sedan driver’s U-turn maneuver likely caused the collision. Both drivers were licensed in New York. The injured passenger was not wearing any safety equipment. The crash caused damage to the left side of the sedan and the front of the moped.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4565276 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Sep 16 - Council Member Avilés rejects NYCHA’s blanket e-bike ban. She calls for battery safety rules, not sweeping crackdowns. Her plan shields delivery workers and seniors. Bronx and Manhattan council members back tighter battery standards. NYCHA reviews feedback. No comment yet.

On September 16, 2022, Council Member Alexa Avilés challenged NYCHA’s proposed blanket ban on e-bikes across public housing. In a letter to NYCHA CEO Greg Russ, Avilés urged targeted battery safety rules instead of a broad ban, warning, 'NYCHA's all-out ban could hurt workers and residents more.' She offered eight recommendations, including federal study, safe battery storage, and clear rules for mobility devices. Bronx Council Member Oswald Feliz announced plans for legislation requiring certified batteries, while Manhattan’s Gale Brewer is drafting a ban on second-hand batteries and pushing for delivery app accountability. The matter is under review after the comment period closed September 6. NYCHA declined to comment. Avilés’s stance centers on protecting delivery workers and vulnerable residents while addressing real fire risks from faulty batteries.

• Pol Pitches More Options to a Blanket E-Bike Ban on NYCHA Property, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-09-16

Sep 14 - A 16-year-old boy on a bike was ejected after a collision with an SUV on West 85 Street. The boy suffered knee and lower leg injuries and was in shock. The SUV hit the bike head-on, damaging its front end.

According to the police report, a 16-year-old male bicyclist was injured and ejected in a crash involving a 2015 SUV traveling north on West 85 Street. The SUV struck the bike, which was traveling east and starting in traffic, at the center front end. The bicyclist suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot and was wearing a helmet. The report lists driver inattention or distraction as a contributing factor. The SUV driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of impact. The collision caused damage to the SUV's center front end and the bike's left front quarter panel.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4565769 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Sep 13 - A 44-year-old man crossing Broadway with the signal was struck by a northbound e-scooter. The rider failed to yield right-of-way. The pedestrian suffered a head contusion and remained conscious. The scooter's front center end was damaged on impact.

According to the police report, a male pedestrian, age 44, was crossing Broadway at an intersection with the signal when an e-scooter traveling north struck him. The pedestrian sustained a head injury classified as a contusion and was conscious after the collision. The report lists the driver's failure to yield right-of-way as a contributing factor. The e-scooter was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end, causing damage to the vehicle. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4564015 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Sep 13 - Council Members push a bill to swap wailing sirens for hi-lo tones and vibrating tech. The aim: less noise, fewer health harms. Sirens will still clear streets, but without the shriek. The city’s nights could finally quiet down.

On September 13, 2022, Council Member Carlina Rivera, joined by Gale Brewer and seven others, sponsored a bill to mandate hi-lo, 'two-tone' sirens for emergency vehicles. The bill, discussed in committee, would cap siren volume at 90 decibels and encourage use of vibrating, low-frequency siren technology. The matter title calls for 'mandating the use of hi-lo, "two-tone" sirens by emergency response vehicles.' Brewer wrote, 'the city should mandate that emergency responders use hi-lo as their default siren and cap sirens at 90 decibels—as required by the proposed legislation—and scale up their use of vibrating siren technology.' The bill seeks to cut the health harms of constant siren noise, which studies link to hypertension and heart disease. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was noted.

• OPINION: Let’s Turn Down the Noise on Sirens, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-09-13

Sep 11 - A taxi struck an e-scooter traveling north on West 75 Street. The e-scooter driver was ejected and injured, suffering bruises and arm injuries. Police cited the taxi driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the cause.

According to the police report, a taxi traveling west on West 75 Street collided with an e-scooter going straight north. The e-scooter driver, a 31-year-old man, was ejected from his vehicle and sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The taxi driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead. The report lists the taxi driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted. The e-scooter sustained front-end damage, and the taxi was damaged on its left front bumper.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4567472 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Sep 9 - A 35-year-old woman crossing with the signal was struck by a vehicle backing unsafely near West 76th Street in Manhattan. She suffered a shoulder and upper arm contusion and was left in shock. The driver’s unsafe backing caused the crash.

According to the police report, a pedestrian was injured when a vehicle backed unsafely near West 76th Street in Manhattan. The 35-year-old woman was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the vehicle struck her. She sustained a contusion to her shoulder and upper arm and was reported to be in shock. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as the contributing factor to the crash. No other driver errors or victim actions were noted. The pedestrian was not at fault and was following the traffic signal at the time of the collision.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4562489 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Aug 22 - Senator Hoylman’s bill targets deadly speed and blind spots. It demands speed governors in new cars and direct visibility for heavy SUVs. The measure aims to cut traffic deaths and force safer vehicles onto New York streets. Oversized cars face new scrutiny.

On August 12, 2022, Manhattan State Senator Brad Hoylman introduced a bill in the New York State Senate. The bill would require all new cars registered in the state to have speed-limiting technology by 2024. It also directs the Department of Motor Vehicles to set visibility rules for vehicles over 3,000 pounds, like SUVs and pickups, to ensure drivers can see pedestrians and cyclists. The bill summary states: 'A new bill in the New York State Senate would require all new cars registered in the state to have speed-limiting technology by 2024.' Senator Hoylman sponsored the bill, citing the 'failure of the promise of Vision Zero.' Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives praised the measure, calling it 'common-sense.' The bill comes as pedestrian deaths hit a 40-year high. If passed, it would force automakers to include safety tech and could make some monster trucks illegal on city streets.

• New Bill Would Mandate Speed Governors and Set Limits on Huge SUVs on NY Streets by 2024, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-22

Aug 19 - A motorcycle struck the rear of a taxi on Riverside Drive. The motorcycle driver, a 37-year-old man, suffered a shoulder and upper arm contusion. The crash involved improper lane usage and unsafe lane changing by the motorcycle driver.

According to the police report, a motorcycle collided with the left front bumper of a taxi while both were traveling south on Riverside Drive. The motorcycle driver, a 37-year-old man, was injured with a contusion and bruising to his shoulder and upper arm. The report lists the motorcycle driver's errors as "Passing or Lane Usage Improper" and "Unsafe Lane Changing." The taxi was damaged on its left front bumper. The motorcycle driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other persons were reported injured.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4556673 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Aug 18 - The MTA’s study crushes the myth. No flood of drivers will hunt for parking outside the toll zone. Vehicle miles drop. Transit use rises. Officials once wary now accept the data. Community concerns linger, but the danger to walkers and cyclists shrinks.

On August 18, 2022, the MTA released an environmental assessment on congestion pricing. The report, discussed by the City Council and local officials, found no evidence that neighborhoods north of Manhattan’s 60th Street would be swamped by drivers seeking free parking. The MTA wrote, 'any increase in parking-seeking traffic would be short-lived.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, who had pushed for residential permits, said, 'I am pleasantly surprised.' Council Member Gale Brewer, who commissioned a parking study, remains cautious and plans to consult with the community. The matter’s summary states, 'reduced travel demand inside the CBD could lead to a parking surplus just south of 60th Street.' Studies from London and Stockholm back the findings. The analysis points to less driving, less danger for vulnerable road users, and a shift toward transit.

• Mythbuster: Congestion Pricing Study Shows Neighborhoods Won’t Be Flooded With Desperate Parkers, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-18

Aug 17 - Council Member Brewer and advocates reject NYCHA’s e-bike ban. They push for safer batteries, charging stations, and delivery app accountability. Bans threaten jobs and homes but do not stop fires. Federal funds and new laws aim to protect workers and tenants.

On August 17, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer began drafting legislation to counter a proposed New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) ban on e-bikes. The bill, not yet numbered, is in early stages. Brewer’s proposal would ban second-hand or refurbished batteries, boost Fire Department outreach, and require delivery apps like Uber and DoorDash to pay for safer batteries. The matter summary warns that a blanket ban 'would worsen the city’s homelessness crisis by forcing residents to choose between a roof over their head and a job, and still not solve the problem of lithium-ion batteries catching fire.' Council Member Alexa Avilés called for a citywide approach. Tenant leader Cynthia Tibbs and Hildalyn Colón Hernández of Los Deliveristas/Workers Justice Project also oppose the ban, urging secure charging hubs. Senator Chuck Schumer highlighted federal funding for safer infrastructure. The public can comment on the NYCHA policy until September 6. Advocates argue that bans punish workers and tenants without fixing systemic battery dangers.

• Pols and Advocates Pushing E-Bike Battery Fix Beyond Blanket Bans, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-17

Aug 15 - Two sedans collided on West 96 Street. A sedan traveling west rear-ended a stopped sedan. The striking driver, 60, suffered chest injuries and shock. Air bags deployed. The crash was caused by following too closely.

According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on West 96 Street rear-ended a stopped sedan. The driver of the striking vehicle, a 60-year-old man, was injured with chest trauma and experienced shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as a contributing factor to the crash. Both vehicles sustained damage at the center front and center back ends respectively. The injured driver was restrained with a lap belt and protected by an air bag that deployed during the collision. No other persons were reported injured. The crash highlights the dangers of tailgating and sudden stops in traffic.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4556668 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Aug 12 - Senator Hoylman pushes S 9528 to force advanced safety tech into every car. DMV must set new rules. No votes yet. Law aims to cut crashes, but details remain thin.

Senate bill S 9528, sponsored by Senator Hoylman, sits at the sponsorship stage. Introduced August 12, 2022, it awaits committee review. The bill 'mandates the use of advanced safety technology in vehicles in the state; requires the commissioner of motor vehicles to promulgate certain rules and regulations.' Hoylman leads the push. No votes or further actions recorded. The proposal could shape how cars interact with people on city streets, but the impact on pedestrians and cyclists is not yet clear. No safety analyst note was provided.

• File S 9528, Open States, Published 2022-08-12

Aug 10 - Two sedans traveling north collided on Henry Hudson Parkway. Both drivers suffered left front impact damage. One driver, 42, was injured with a concussion and unconsciousness. Driver distraction and illness contributed to the crash. No ejections reported.

According to the police report, two sedans collided while traveling north on Henry Hudson Parkway. Both vehicles sustained damage to their left front sections. The 42-year-old male driver of one sedan was injured, suffering a concussion and unconsciousness with injuries to his entire body. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers, with illness also noted for the injured driver. Both drivers were licensed and operating their vehicles going straight ahead. No occupants were ejected from the vehicles. The crash highlights the dangers of driver distraction and medical conditions behind the wheel.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4565408 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Aug 10 - Electeds and advocates rally for the long-promised 7 train station in Hell’s Kitchen. They call out broken promises and demand action. The MTA stalls. The neighborhood waits. Riders walk farther. Streets stay dangerous. The city delays. Lives hang in the balance.

On August 10, 2022, Council Member Erik Bottcher, Rep. Jerry Nadler, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, State Sen. Brad Hoylman, and Assembly Members Dick Gottfried and Linda Rosenthal rallied for the 7 train station at 41st Street and 10th Avenue. The station, once promised as part of the Hudson Yards rezoning, was cut to save money. Bottcher called the cut a 'huge mistake.' Hoylman said it was a 'bait and switch.' Nadler pledged to fight for federal funding. The MTA said it would study the project. The matter: 'Pols and advocates are calling on the MTA to finally build the promised 7 train station at 41st Street and 10th Avenue in Hell's Kitchen.' No formal bill number or committee was cited. The lack of a station keeps riders on foot longer, exposing them to traffic and danger. The city’s inaction leaves vulnerable road users at risk.

• Pols and Advocates: Build the Promised 7 Train Station in Hells Kitchen, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-10

Aug 10 - Electeds and advocates rally for the long-promised 7 train station in Hell’s Kitchen. They call out broken promises and demand action. The MTA stalls. The neighborhood waits. Riders walk farther. Streets stay dangerous. The city delays. Lives hang in the balance.

On August 10, 2022, Council Member Erik Bottcher, Rep. Jerry Nadler, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, State Sen. Brad Hoylman, and Assembly Members Dick Gottfried and Linda Rosenthal rallied for the 7 train station at 41st Street and 10th Avenue. The station, once promised as part of the Hudson Yards rezoning, was cut to save money. Bottcher called the cut a 'huge mistake.' Hoylman said it was a 'bait and switch.' Nadler pledged to fight for federal funding. The MTA said it would study the project. The matter: 'Pols and advocates are calling on the MTA to finally build the promised 7 train station at 41st Street and 10th Avenue in Hell's Kitchen.' No formal bill number or committee was cited. The lack of a station keeps riders on foot longer, exposing them to traffic and danger. The city’s inaction leaves vulnerable road users at risk.

• Pols and Advocates: Build the Promised 7 Train Station in Hells Kitchen, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-10

Aug 6 - A man crossing West 86 Street with the signal was struck by a southbound cyclist. The cyclist showed no vehicle damage but was inattentive. The pedestrian suffered a fractured chest and dislocation. The crash exposed dangers at busy intersections.

According to the police report, a pedestrian crossing West 86 Street at an intersection with the signal was injured when a cyclist traveling southbound struck him. The pedestrian, a conscious male, sustained a fractured chest and dislocation. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as contributing factors. The cyclist was going straight ahead and showed no vehicle damage. The crash highlights the risks posed by distracted cyclists failing to observe traffic controls, resulting in serious injury to a lawful pedestrian.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4556351 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-09-19

Aug 1 - Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine called on state DOT to take a lane from cars on the West Side Highway. He wants a two-way protected bike lane. The Greenway is packed. Delivery workers need space. Local boards and lawmakers back the move.

""A solution to this problem has been proposed by the Hudson River Park Trust Advisory Council and Manhattan Community Boards 1, 2 and 4: to expand the Greenway to include the westernmost lane of Route 9A from West 54th Street to the Battery. This new lane would absorb all southbound bicycle traffic with northbound bicycle traffic using the Greenway space. The current divider between the Greenway and Route 9A would separate opposing bicycle traffic, reducing collisions."" -- Gale A. Brewer

On August 1, 2022, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine demanded the state Department of Transportation repurpose a lane on the West Side Highway for a two-way protected bike lane. Levine wrote, 'The Hudson River Greenway is one of the most heavily used bike paths in the country... congestion has worsened significantly.' He sent his letter to state DOT Commissioner Therese Dominguez and city DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. Local elected officials and Community Board 1, which voted 41-3 in May 2020 to support the change, also back the plan. State senators, assembly members, and council members signed a letter urging the same. Levine and supporters argue the new lane would ease crowding and give e-bike delivery workers—many of them immigrants—a safe, legal route. The state DOT has resisted, citing car congestion. Advocates say more space for cyclists is overdue.

• SEE IT! Manhattan BP to State: Take a Lane from Drivers on the West Side Highway, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-01

Jul 27 - The city will redraw Third Avenue. Fewer car lanes. More bus lanes. A protected bike path. Wider sidewalks. Advocates and Council Member Gale Brewer pushed for change. DOT’s Ed Pincar says a proposal is coming. NYPD and Sen. Krueger focus on bike enforcement.

On July 27, 2022, city officials announced at a virtual town hall that a long-awaited redesign of Manhattan’s Third Avenue is in the works. The event, hosted by State Senator Liz Krueger, featured DOT Manhattan Borough Commissioner Ed Pincar, who said, “We are looking very closely… we may be able to present a proposal maybe even later this year.” The redesign aims to transform Third Avenue into a safer boulevard with fewer car lanes, more bus lanes, a separated bike path, and wider sidewalks. Council Member Gale Brewer and advocates like Paul Krikler have long demanded these changes. Krueger and the NYPD, however, focused on enforcement against cyclists and e-bike riders, citing constituent concerns. Krueger has previously pushed for harsher penalties for electric-vehicle riders. NYPD data shows more enforcement against cyclists than drivers, even though drivers cause most injuries. No formal safety analysis was provided.

• ACTIVISTS GET ACTION: City Pledges to Redesign Manhattan’s Third Avenue This Year, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-07-27