The New New York City 25 MPH Speed Limit

On November 7th, a new 25 mph speed limit went into effect on all New York City streets unless otherwise posted. This is part of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s effort to drastically reduce pedestrian deaths in our city.

I applaud the effort, since virtually any measure that slows down taxis, truck drivers and other motorists is a positive measure. The chaotic mixture in New York City of negligent drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists is alarming.

Careful drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists will embrace the new speed limit. According to the Mayor’s Vision Zero safety initiative, pedestrians struck by a vehicle at 25 mph are half as likely to die as those struck at 30 mph, the former speed limit. The mayor’s Vision Zero is a long term plan to bring the number of traffic fatalities in the city to zero.

While the goal is ambitious, this is the right starting point for long term progress. Drivers must accept that speed limits on crowded city streets are there for a good reason. This is not the city for negligent drivers. One careless move among the throngs of drivers, pedestrians and cyclists can instantly result in personal injuries or wrongful deaths. These tragedies, in part, can be avoided by obeying the new speed limits.

To find out more about your rights as a victim of an auto accident, please call me toll free at (877) CALL-LAW® (225-5529) or (212) 714-0988