Transportation Alternatives Statement After Driver Kills Bike Rider in Brooklyn, 2023 Now Second-Deadliest Year for Cyclists in Recorded History
Traffic violence has killed 249 New Yorkers in 2023.
BROOKLYN, NY — On December 8, a driver struck Kenny DeForest while he was riding a bike in Brooklyn. DeForest died because of this crash on December 13.
2023 is now the second-deadliest year for bike riders in New York City’s recorded history, only behind 1999.
In October, hundreds of New Yorkers gathered at City Hall to demand Mayor Eric Adams take action to make New York City streets safe for bike riders. Specifically, they called for him to fully-implement the NYC Streets Plan and build 50 miles of legally mandated protected bike lanes by the year’s end. With two weeks remaining in 2023, Mayor Adams has only built 30, according to Transportation Alternatives’ protected bike lane tracker.
Statement from Transportation Alternatives Executive Director Danny Harris:
“We are devastated to learn that another New Yorker riding a bike was killed in New York City, making 2023 the deadliest year for cyclists since 1999. We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Kenny DeForest.”
“Our leaders failed Kenny — and every bike rider killed in this record-breaking year for cyclist deaths. Our leaders know how to prevent crashes from happening, especially as we’re on track for the safest year for pedestrians during Vision Zero, and they must bring this same effort and urgency to keeping cyclists safe.”
“Traffic violence is a choice. We cannot continue to accept death on our streets. With just weeks left in 2023, Mayor Adams is on track to miss the legal mandates of the NYC Streets Plan for the second year in a row. This is unacceptable. No more excuses, no more delays. Deliver safe streets today for all New Yorkers.”
