Tomorrow, New York City Council will vote on the Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Act, Introduction 567-A. If approved, the New York City Department of Transportation would be required to annually:

• identify the twenty most dangerous intersections based on their cumulative crash count
• inspect and analyze the hazards at these locations
• recommend preventative countermeasures to be applied at these locations and take steps to implement them
• report all of the above to city council, the Mayor and community boards

"Currently, crash data demonstrates that over 50% of all pedestrian-related crashes occur at just 10% of all intersections. Improving the most crash-prone locations for pedestrians will save lives and go a long way to address community concerns at historically dangerous intersections," says T.A. Executive Director Paul Steely White. "Pedestrian crashes are not random occurrences and in using the term 'crash' instead of 'accident,' the bill further heralds a significant shift towards accountability and systematic prevention of traffic injuries and fatalities."

"This bill establishes the beginnings of a systematic process that will bring important pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements to areas in the five boroughs that have long been terrifying places to walk and bike. In addition to improving pedestrian safety at these locations, the preventative countermeasures will enable New Yorkers to be more physically active and walk more in their neighborhoods."

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