AARP New York: Tragic Hit-and-Run Underscores Urgent Need for Enhanced Pedestrian Safety

NEW YORK, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today in response to the killing of a 79-year-old woman in a hit-and-run incident that occurred in Brooklyn on Thursday night:

“We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the 79-year-old woman tragically killed in the hit-and-run accident yesterday. This is yet another reminder that the city needs to enhance pedestrian safety.

"New York City has seen an increase in traffic-related pedestrian fatalities. While everyone should be safe when crossing the road, our elderly residents are disproportionately subjected to dangerous traffic conditions. 

"While the New York City Department of Transportation has undertaken commendable efforts to enhance street safety, more is needed to make streets safer and more accessible. It is paramount that the city commits to substantial investments in streetscape improvements aimed at enhancing pedestrian accessibility.

"We also implore the City and State to take action to safeguard pedestrians by enacting Sammy’s Law, which seeks to reduce the city-wide speed limit.

"May this tragedy act as a catalyst for a meaningful investment in the safety of our city streets.”

Contact: Erik Kriss, ekriss@aarp.org

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About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.

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