By Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
According to reports, there have been 104 pedestrian deaths this year as of last week, and there will likely be more before the end of the year. Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Vision Zero initiative has cut down on some of the deaths and injuries. This has been accomplished with lower speed limits and speed cameras. But in my opinion, one death is too many. As reported, more needs to be done. Pedestrians need to be better educated about the do’s and don’ts, when and where to cross the street. I also believe more summonses need to be issued to pedestrians who jaywalk. Let me also point out that 13 pedestrians were killed in the last two weeks. I also believe drivers must realize as well that they need to be mindful of pedestrians in the walkway.
I live in Glen Oaks Village, and a few years ago a neighbor of mine was walking across the street with his dog and both were killed by a driver who was trying to make a green light before it turned red, I was told. He was 86 years old. So blame is a two-way street and pedestrians and drivers need to obey the rules of the road or more people will surely die and that is most sad indeed.
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Glen Oaks Village
