About these crash totals
Counts come from NYC police crash reports (NYC Open Data). We sum all crashes, injuries, and deaths for this area across the selected time window shown on the card. Injury severity follows the official definitions in the NYPD dataset.
- Crashes: number of police‑reported collisions (all road users).
- All injuries: total injured people in those crashes.
- Moderate / Serious: subcategories reported by officers (e.g., broken bones vs. life‑threatening trauma).
- Deaths: people who died due to a crash.
Notes: Police reports can be corrected after initial publication. Minor incidents without a police report are not included.
Close▸ Killed 6
▸ Crush Injuries 4
▸ Severe Bleeding 1
▸ Severe Lacerations 1
▸ Concussion 9
▸ Whiplash 17
▸ Contusion/Bruise 17
▸ Abrasion 10
▸ Pain/Nausea 9
About this chart
We group pedestrian injuries and deaths by the vehicle type that struck them (as recorded in police reports). Use the dropdown to view totals, serious injuries, or deaths.
- Trucks/Buses, SUVs/Cars, Mopeds, and Bikes reflect the reporting categories in the crash dataset.
- Counts include people on foot only; crashes with no injured pedestrians are not shown here.
Notes: Police classification can change during investigations. Small categories may have year‑to‑year variance.
CloseAbout these numbers
These totals count vehicles with at least the shown number of camera‑issued speeding violations (school‑zone speed cameras) in any rolling 12‑month window in this district. Totals are summed from 2022 to the present for this geography.
- ≥ 6 (6+): advocates’ standard for repeat speeding offenders who should face escalating consequences.
- ≥ 16 (16+): threshold in the current edited bill awaiting State Senate action.
About this list
This ranks vehicles by the number of NYC school‑zone speed‑camera violations they received in the last 12 months anywhere in the city. The smaller note shows how many times the same plate was caught in this area in the last 90 days.
Camera violations are issued by NYC DOT’s program. Counts reflect issued tickets and may omit dismissed or pending cases. Plate text is shown verbatim as recorded.
Close
Howard Beach-Lindenwood: cars kill here. the fixes wait.
Howard Beach-Lindenwood: Jan 1, 2022 - Aug 25, 2025
The Belt takes. North Conduit takes. Cross Bay takes. The names repeat like scars.
Two pedestrians are gone since 2022. Four people inside cars are gone, too. Hundreds hurt. That’s one small neighborhood. That’s one clock that won’t stop.
On July 12, a 13‑year‑old on an e‑bike was crushed at 163rd Ave and Cross Bay Boulevard. The SUV was stopped in traffic. The boy hit the rear and suffered crush injuries, listed as serious in city data (NYC Open Data, CrashID 4827269).
In April 2023, a 73‑year‑old man was struck and killed crossing North Conduit near Cohancy Street. The driver was going straight. Police coded driver inattention (CrashID 4620609).
In November 2022, a 63‑year‑old woman was struck and killed on 84th Street. Not at an intersection. She died of head trauma (CrashID 4585750).
In July this year on the Belt, two passengers were ejected and killed in a multi‑vehicle crash tied to unsafe speed. Another driver and passenger were injured (CrashID 4825307).
These are not one‑offs. They form a line.
Where the bodies fall
The Belt Parkway leads the pain: three deaths and 175 injuries in this area window (top intersections). North Conduit Avenue adds two deaths and 62 injuries. Cross Bay Boulevard shows 76 injuries.
The clock matters. Injuries spike after dark and into late night. Big counts hit at 8 p.m., 11 p.m., and just before dawn. Four deaths cluster around 6 a.m. Another two at noon (hourly distribution).
Causes read like a coroner’s shorthand. “Unsafe speed.” “Driver inattention.” “Disregarded traffic control.” “Failure to yield.” Most severe harm rolls up as “other,” the catch‑all that still breaks bones (contributing factors).
SUVs and sedans hit people on foot again and again. Among pedestrian cases here, SUVs lead the injury count, with deaths tied to SUVs and sedans alike (vehicle rollup).
A hit‑and‑run two blocks from JFK
At 155th Street and South Conduit Avenue, a driver struck a 52‑year‑old man around 2:30 a.m. and fled. Police said, “The driver sped off without stopping. No arrests have been made” (NY Daily News). ABC7 reported, “The operator of the vehicle fled the scene after hitting the man” (ABC7). Gothamist wrote detectives were still looking for the vehicle (Gothamist).
No crosswalk. A body in the road. Another driver gone into the dark.
The policy ledger: who slows cars, who won’t
Albany gave New York City the power to lower speeds under Sammy’s Law, and renewed 24/7 speed cameras through 2030. Lawmakers split. In June, nine city Assembly Members voted no on the renewal, including Stacey Pheffer Amato of this area (Streetsblog NYC).
At City Hall in 2022, Council Member Joann Ariola opposed expanding speed cameras; her vehicle racked up dozens of violations, including school‑zone speeding and red‑light tickets, as reported then (Streetsblog NYC, 2022). Another account marked the Council’s home‑rule approval enabling 24/7 cameras that year (New York Post).
In the State Senate this year, James Sanders and Roxanne Persaud voted yes in committee to require intelligent speed assistance for repeat speeders under S4045 (Open States).
Fix the corners that kill
Start where the harm is loudest: the Belt Parkway, North Conduit, Cross Bay.
- Daylight corners and harden turns at North Conduit and side streets to cut turning strikes. Add leading pedestrian intervals.
- Calm Cross Bay Boulevard with concrete: refuge islands, narrower lanes, protected space near 163rd Ave.
- Night hours see heavy injury tallies. Run targeted enforcement and automated control where allowed around the clock.
These are standard tools. They fit the pattern seen here: speed, bad visibility, bad turns. The numbers justify the work (NYC Open Data).
Citywide moves that end the pattern
- Lower the default speed limit using Sammy’s Law authority. Slower streets reduce the body count. The power exists; the delay does, too (AMNY overview of 2025 traffic laws).
- Pass and enforce speed limiters for repeat offenders. Senators here already voted yes in committee on S4045. Make it law.
The corridors in Howard Beach‑Lindenwood tell the same story. The tape is already rolling. It does not pause on its own.
Take one step now: help push these fixes forward. Start here: Take Action.
Citations
▸ Citations
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – Crash Data (Crashes) - Persons dataset, Vehicles dataset , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-25
- Queens Hit-And-Run Kills Pedestrian Near JFK, NY Daily News, Published 2025-08-13
- Pedestrian Killed In JFK Hit-And-Run, ABC7, Published 2025-08-13
- Hit-And-Run Kills Pedestrian Near JFK, Gothamist, Published 2025-08-13
- Ye Shall Know Their Names! Meet the Dirty Dozen City Pols Who Voted Against Speed Camera Program, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2025-06-23
- Queens Pol Voted Against Speed Cameras — And Has 27 Speeding Tickets!, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-09-09
- NYC Council signs off on 24/7 speed enforcement cameras, New York Post, Published 2022-05-26
- File S 4045, Open States / NY Senate, Published 2025-06-12
- These are new traffic laws in New York slated for 2025, amNY, Published 2024-12-31
Other Representatives
District 23
159-53 102nd St., Howard Beach, NY 11414
Room 839, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 32
114-12 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 1, Rockaway Park, NY 11694
718-318-6411
250 Broadway, Suite 1550, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7382
District 19
1222 E. 96th St., Brooklyn, NY 11236
Room 409, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Howard Beach-Lindenwood Howard Beach-Lindenwood sits in Queens, Precinct 106, District 32, AD 23, SD 19, Queens CB10.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Howard Beach-Lindenwood
13Int 1160-2025
Ariola votes yes on pavement markings bill, boosting street safety citywide.▸Feb 13 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-02-13
13Int 1160-2025
Ariola votes yes to require faster pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Feb 13 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-02-13
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - A car struck an underpass on Belt Parkway. Metal twisted. A woman, 27, died at the hospital. A man survived. Police do not know who drove. The wreck left questions. The system failed to protect its passengers.
According to NY Daily News (published February 8, 2025), a single-car crash on Queens’ Belt Parkway killed a 27-year-old woman and injured a 30-year-old man. The white Toyota sedan hit an underpass near 225th Street around 3:50 a.m. Both occupants were found outside the wreck when police arrived. Investigators are unsure who was driving at the time of impact: 'Since both occupants were out of the car at the time of the crash, investigators haven't figured out who was driving, police said.' The woman died at Long Island Jewish Hospital-Valley Stream; the man was expected to survive. The article highlights ongoing uncertainty about driver identity and underscores the persistent risks on city highways, especially where loss of vehicle control leads to deadly outcomes. The investigation continues.
-
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-08
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.
NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.
-
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-05
31
Taxi Slams Into SUV on Cross Bay Blvd▸Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Feb 13 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.
- File Int 1160-2025, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2025-02-13
13Int 1160-2025
Ariola votes yes to require faster pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Feb 13 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-02-13
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - A car struck an underpass on Belt Parkway. Metal twisted. A woman, 27, died at the hospital. A man survived. Police do not know who drove. The wreck left questions. The system failed to protect its passengers.
According to NY Daily News (published February 8, 2025), a single-car crash on Queens’ Belt Parkway killed a 27-year-old woman and injured a 30-year-old man. The white Toyota sedan hit an underpass near 225th Street around 3:50 a.m. Both occupants were found outside the wreck when police arrived. Investigators are unsure who was driving at the time of impact: 'Since both occupants were out of the car at the time of the crash, investigators haven't figured out who was driving, police said.' The woman died at Long Island Jewish Hospital-Valley Stream; the man was expected to survive. The article highlights ongoing uncertainty about driver identity and underscores the persistent risks on city highways, especially where loss of vehicle control leads to deadly outcomes. The investigation continues.
-
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-08
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.
NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.
-
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-05
31
Taxi Slams Into SUV on Cross Bay Blvd▸Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Feb 13 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.
- File Int 1160-2025, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2025-02-13
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - A car struck an underpass on Belt Parkway. Metal twisted. A woman, 27, died at the hospital. A man survived. Police do not know who drove. The wreck left questions. The system failed to protect its passengers.
According to NY Daily News (published February 8, 2025), a single-car crash on Queens’ Belt Parkway killed a 27-year-old woman and injured a 30-year-old man. The white Toyota sedan hit an underpass near 225th Street around 3:50 a.m. Both occupants were found outside the wreck when police arrived. Investigators are unsure who was driving at the time of impact: 'Since both occupants were out of the car at the time of the crash, investigators haven't figured out who was driving, police said.' The woman died at Long Island Jewish Hospital-Valley Stream; the man was expected to survive. The article highlights ongoing uncertainty about driver identity and underscores the persistent risks on city highways, especially where loss of vehicle control leads to deadly outcomes. The investigation continues.
-
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-08
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.
NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.
-
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-05
31
Taxi Slams Into SUV on Cross Bay Blvd▸Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Feb 8 - A car struck an underpass on Belt Parkway. Metal twisted. A woman, 27, died at the hospital. A man survived. Police do not know who drove. The wreck left questions. The system failed to protect its passengers.
According to NY Daily News (published February 8, 2025), a single-car crash on Queens’ Belt Parkway killed a 27-year-old woman and injured a 30-year-old man. The white Toyota sedan hit an underpass near 225th Street around 3:50 a.m. Both occupants were found outside the wreck when police arrived. Investigators are unsure who was driving at the time of impact: 'Since both occupants were out of the car at the time of the crash, investigators haven't figured out who was driving, police said.' The woman died at Long Island Jewish Hospital-Valley Stream; the man was expected to survive. The article highlights ongoing uncertainty about driver identity and underscores the persistent risks on city highways, especially where loss of vehicle control leads to deadly outcomes. The investigation continues.
- Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-08
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.
NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.
-
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-05
31
Taxi Slams Into SUV on Cross Bay Blvd▸Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Feb 5 - A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.
NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.
- Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-05
31
Taxi Slams Into SUV on Cross Bay Blvd▸Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 31 - Taxi crashed into SUV’s rear in Queens. Taxi driver hurt, neck injury. Police cite driver inattention and tailgating. Both vehicles damaged. No injuries to SUV driver.
According to the police report, a taxi rear-ended an SUV on Cross Bay Blvd in Queens at 16:20. The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man, suffered a neck injury but was conscious and restrained. The SUV driver was not reported injured. Police list 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. The taxi struck the SUV’s center back end, damaging both vehicles. No actions by the SUV driver contributed to the crash. The report highlights driver error behind the wheel of the taxi.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
-
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 22 - A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.
According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.
- Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-01-22
20
Sedan Strikes Driver on Belt Parkway Left Side▸Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 20 - A sedan traveling east on Belt Parkway collided with its driver on the left side. The 45-year-old male driver suffered head injuries but remained conscious. Police cite improper lane usage as the contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old male driver was injured in a crash on Belt Parkway at 1:55 AM. The vehicle, a 2017 Honda sedan traveling east, sustained damage to the left side doors, which was also the point of impact. The driver, who was the sole occupant and wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered head injuries and remained conscious after the collision. The report identifies 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error in lane management. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The driver was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead before the crash.
18
SUV Rear-Ends Tow Truck on Queens Avenue▸Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 18 - A 39-year-old woman driving an SUV suffered a head contusion after rear-ending a tow truck on S Conduit Ave in Queens. Both vehicles were traveling east when the SUV struck the truck’s left front bumper. The driver remained conscious but injured.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 3:50 PM on S Conduit Ave in Queens. A 39-year-old female driver of a 2020 SUV was injured, sustaining a head contusion and a bruise. The SUV collided with the rear of a 2024 tow truck traveling in the same direction. Both vehicles were going straight ahead when the SUV impacted the center front end of the tow truck, damaging the SUV’s center back end and the truck’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as the contributing factor for both vehicles, indicating driver error related to vehicle operation. The SUV driver was not ejected and remained conscious. No victim behaviors or pedestrian involvement were noted as contributing factors.
16
Pheffer Amato Supports Misguided NYPD Toll Exemption Bill▸Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
-
Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 16 - Reinvent Albany blasted a bill to exempt NYPD officers from Manhattan congestion tolls. The group called it unfair, a $22 million giveaway to a powerful few. They warned it would drain funds, raise tolls, and reward special interests over public safety.
On January 16, 2025, Reinvent Albany, a good government watchdog, issued a statement opposing a bill from Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. The bill seeks to exempt NYPD officers, even off-duty, from paying congestion pricing tolls in Manhattan’s central business district. Reinvent Albany called the measure 'contrary to notions of basic fairness' and a '$22 million handout' to a special interest. The Traffic Mobility Review Board had already rejected such exemptions. The group warned that multiple exemption bills could cost the public $100 million yearly and force higher tolls for everyone else. Neither Pheffer Amato nor Scarcella-Spanton commented. The watchdog urged lawmakers to serve the many, not the powerful few.
- Watchdog Group: No Congestion Pricing Toll Exemptions for Cops!, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2025-01-16
8A 1077
Amato co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 8 - Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
- File A 1077, Open States, Published 2025-01-08
8Int 1160-2025
Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Jan 8 - Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
- File Int 1160-2025, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2025-01-08
18
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Dec 18 - Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
- Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-12-18
30
Sedan Rear-Ends Parked SUV on Belt Parkway▸Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Nov 30 - A sedan crashed into a parked SUV on Belt Parkway. Metal screamed. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, suffered crushing injuries. The police report cites following too closely and driver inattention. The night swallowed the wreckage.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling westbound on Belt Parkway slammed into a parked SUV. The report states, 'A sedan slammed into a parked SUV. Metal tore. A 26-year-old man, belted and alone, crushed across the body.' The driver, a 26-year-old man, was injured and remained conscious after the crash, suffering injuries to his entire body. The police report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. The SUV was stationary at the time of the collision, while the sedan was moving straight ahead. The impact crushed the sedan's front end and damaged the SUV's rear. No mention is made of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The report centers on driver error and the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
24
Two Vehicles Collide on Queens Avenue During Turns▸Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Nov 24 - A BMW SUV and Nissan sedan collided on Sutter Ave in Queens. Both drivers were making turns improperly, causing impact to their quarter panels. The female sedan driver suffered neck injuries and bruising, restrained by a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:50 on Sutter Ave in Queens. The BMW SUV was making a U-turn southwest when it struck the Nissan sedan, which was making a right turn southeast. Both drivers contributed to the collision by turning improperly, as cited in the report. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the sedan. The female sedan driver, age 22, was injured with neck contusions and bruises but was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' as a contributing factor for the sedan driver and also notes an unspecified secondary factor. The male SUV driver was licensed and driving alone. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.
16
Sedan Rear-Ends Stopped Pickup Truck in Queens▸Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Nov 16 - A sedan traveling west on N Conduit Ave crashed into the back of a stopped pickup truck. Unsafe speed and following too closely caused the impact. A front-seat passenger suffered facial contusions and bruises, restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 22:00 on N Conduit Ave in Queens. A sedan traveling west struck the center back end of a stopped pickup truck. The report cites 'Unsafe Speed' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors attributed to the sedan driver. The collision caused injuries to a 56-year-old female front passenger in the sedan, who sustained facial contusions and bruises. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt at the time of the crash. The pickup truck was occupied by a single licensed male driver, who was stopped in traffic before the impact. Vehicle damage was concentrated at the center front end of the sedan and the center back end of the pickup truck. The report highlights driver errors—unsafe speed and inadequate following distance—as the primary causes of the crash.
13Int 1105-2024
Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Nov 13 - Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
- File Int 1105-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-11-13
5
Chain Reaction Crash Injures Two Drivers in Queens▸Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Nov 5 - Four cars slammed together on N Conduit Ave. Two drivers hurt, limbs battered, both in shock. Police blame tailgating. Metal twisted at front and rear. Streets stayed dangerous.
According to the police report, four vehicles collided in a chain reaction on N Conduit Ave in Queens at 8:00 AM. Two drivers, ages 39 and 63, suffered injuries to their legs, feet, arms, and elbows. Both were in shock. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' as the main contributing factor for multiple drivers. All vehicles were traveling westbound and struck at the center front and back ends, showing classic rear-end impact patterns. No pedestrians were involved. The police report highlights repeated driver error in maintaining safe distance, with no mention of victim fault.
26Int 0346-2024
Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
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File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
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Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Sep 26 - Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
- File Int 0346-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-09-26
20
Distracted SUV Driver Hits Motorcycle Rider▸Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Sep 20 - A motorcycle rider suffered severe whole-body injuries after a collision with an SUV on South Conduit Avenue in Queens. The SUV driver’s inattention and improper lane usage caused the crash. The motorcyclist was unconscious and wearing a helmet.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on South Conduit Avenue in Queens at 7:00 a.m. involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The motorcycle rider, a 20-year-old male, was the sole occupant and driver of the motorcycle. He sustained severe injuries to his entire body and was unconscious at the scene. The report identifies the SUV driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper,' which directly contributed to the crash. The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet, as noted under safety equipment, but no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors. The SUV was traveling west with damage to its left front bumper, indicating the point of impact. This crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper lane use in Queens.
12
Ariola Warns Unsafe Streets Increase Jaywalking Risks▸Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
-
Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-09-12
Sep 12 - City Council pulled the jaywalking bill before a vote. Advocates warned new language could blame pedestrians for crashes. The bill would have let people cross mid-block, but now demands they yield to drivers. Racial bias in enforcement remains unaddressed.
On September 12, 2024, the City Council delayed action on a bill to legalize jaywalking. The measure, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, passed the Transportation Committee but was withdrawn before a full Council vote. The bill’s summary stated it would 'legalize crossing outside crosswalks and require a pedestrian education campaign.' Advocates objected to last-minute changes that would force pedestrians to yield to drivers, fearing it could criminalize those struck by cars. Narcisse highlighted 'systemic bias in how these laws are enforced.' Committee Chair Selvena Brooks-Powers said, 'There is little evidence to support the claim that criminal or civil offenses for jaywalking change pedestrian behavior or increase pedestrian safety,' and noted racial disparities in ticketing. The NYPD and DOT opposed the bill, citing safety concerns. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, with advocates demanding stronger protections for pedestrians.
- Council Balks on Legalizing ‘Jaywalking’, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-09-12