Transportation Alternatives Statement After Crashes Kill Two People, Critically Injure Two Others in Brooklyn in 12 Hours
Crashes have killed 249 New Yorkers in 2022 — 24% higher than in 2018, the safest year under Vision Zero.
BROOKLYN, NY — In a span of less than 12 hours, drivers of SUVs and trucks killed two people and critically injured two others in four separate crashes in Brooklyn. The two fatalities were the 73rd and 74th people killed in Brooklyn this year, 15 more people than had been killed at this point in 2018.
In Crown Heights, the driver of a flatbed truck struck and killed Amelia Grant, a 75-year-old woman crossing the street in the crosswalk at Utica Avenue and St. Johns Place, a Vision Zero Priority Intersection and both Vision Zero Priority Corridors, making them among the city’s most dangerous streets. One in five fatalities this year were New Yorkers age 65 and older.
In Williamsburg, the driver of a pick-up truck struck and killed 45-year-old Gerardo Cielo Ahuatl, who was riding a moped. There have been 83 injuries over the past two years along Graham Avenue, which DOT labeled a Vision Zero Priority Corridor.
In Flatlands, the driver of an SUV critically injured a 70-year-old on an e-bike. City Council District 45 ranks third out of 51 City Council districts for most traffic injuries, according to Spatial Equity NYC, with an injury rate 56% above the citywide average.
In Midwood, an SUV driver struck and critically injured a motorcycle rider at the intersection of Ocean Parkway and Avenue M. These streets are both designated as Vision Zero Priority Corridors.
Statement from Transportation Alternatives Executive Director Danny Harris:
“Within 12 hours, four families have been devastated by traffic violence across Brooklyn. We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the people killed and wish a full and speedy recovery to the people injured.”
“As we enter a new year, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Rodriguez must commit to even bolder and more concrete action to save lives across every corner of our city. This starts with ensuring that the requirements of NYC Streets Plan are implemented without continued delay or excuse.”
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