Fatalities Up, Summonses Down
[I would not be surprised if the same thing could be said here.]
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The NYPD keeps traffic moving, but at what cost? |
Since fiscal year 2007, the total number of moving violations issued by the NYPD has decreased by just less than two percent, while the number of bicyclists and pedestrians killed on New York City's streets has increased by more than two percent, according to the biannual tome whose publication is mandated by the City Charter.
Although far fewer motorists and passengers died on city streets last year than in previous ones, the increase in pedestrian and bicyclist deaths, concurrent with a decrease in summonsing activity, is a troubling trend, particularly given the bicycle and pedestrian-friendly efforts of other City agencies.
In a series of landmark (PDF) reports (PDF) issued earlier this year, Transportation Alternatives called attention to various failings in the NYPD's approach to reporting traffic violations. Some of these criticisms have already brought about change, at least in this year's MMR. The NYPD now lists, "Enhance traffic safety for city residents", as its second highest priority. Unfortunately, T.A.'s more fundamental concern -- the actual safety of New Yorkers on the street -- has yet to change with the NYPD's words on paper.