The city’s Transportation Department reports bike deaths are at a 23-year high

The Transportation Department of the city has reported that bike-related fatalities have reached a 23-year peak, - NY1 TV  on March 5, 2024.

According to the data, there have been a total of 30 deaths, with 23 involving individuals riding e-bikes and seven involving those on traditional bicycles.

Kyle Calhoun, a daily commuter on an e-bike, emphasized the learning curve required to navigate city streets alongside cars, regardless of the type of bike being ridden. "You have to know what you’re doing when you get on them," Calhoun stated. He also expressed criticism towards the city's bike infrastructure, deeming it unfriendly to cyclists. "I think the city is very bike unfriendly unfortunately, where it seems like the car culture is really most important, with everyone more concerned about parking than safe bike lanes," Calhoun remarked.

Sara Lind echoed Calhoun's sentiments, advocating for more protected bike lanes to accommodate the increasing bike usage in the city. As co-executive director for Open Plans, an organization focused on reshaping street space usage, Lind emphasized the lag in infrastructure development.

Transportation Alternatives, another organization, highlighted that a majority of last year's cyclist fatalities occurred in areas lacking bike infrastructure. Elizabeth Adams, deputy executive director of public affairs for Transportation Alternatives, cited a recent tragedy in Brooklyn where a cyclist was killed after a car door was opened, pushing them into traffic.

A cyclist interviewed by NY1 acknowledged the necessity for protected bike lanes but also recognized the challenges faced by drivers. "It’s tough because I also drive in the city, and widening the lanes to me may mean more congestion on the roads," stated Siever Oconoraoki.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) reported the installation of over 30 miles of protected bike lanes last year.