Traffic Deaths Decline Across Queens, New Report Finds

Citywide traffic deaths fell to near-record lows for the first quarter, down 7 percent from last year, DOT said.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:08pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a busy city street at night, with blurred lights and colors creating a sense of motion and energy.As New York City works to make its streets safer, the decline in traffic deaths across Queens offers a glimmer of hope, though the challenge of curbing dangerous driving behaviors remains.NYC Today

New York City traffic deaths have dropped significantly so far in 2026, with Queens among the boroughs contributing to the citywide decline, according to a new Department of Transportation report. Last year saw fewer traffic deaths overall, with the DOT report documenting 20 percent year-over-year declines in fatalities involving both pedestrians and motor vehicle occupants.

Why it matters

The decline in traffic deaths across Queens is seen as a positive outcome of Vision Zero initiatives and other street safety redesigns implemented by the city. However, transportation advocates caution that progress on fatalities does not mean all traffic safety problems have been solved, as the issue of 'super speeders' who rack up numerous speed camera violations remains a concern.

The details

Through the first quarter of 2026, there have been 42 traffic fatalities — the third fewest on record since data collection began in 1910. Officials cited several initiatives likely driving these trends, including street safety redesigns launched under Vision Zero and New York City's automated enforcement network. To sustain Vision Zero progress, they also highlighted the need for 'Super Speeders' legislation requiring intelligent speed assist technology for repeat offenders, now under consideration elsewhere in the state.

  • In 2023, DOT added 2.5 miles of protected bike lanes on 11th Street, Jackson Avenue, and 44th Drive in Long Island City.
  • The following year, the agency completed the final phase of the Queens Boulevard redesign, adding protected bike lanes in Sunnyside and Long Island City along what was once dubbed the 'Boulevard of Death.'
  • Last year, DOT finished the first phase of the 31st Avenue Bike Boulevard, creating more than 26,000 square feet of new pedestrian space.

The players

Mike Flynn

NYC DOT Commissioner.

Kate Brockwehl

Families for Safe Streets-NY Co-Chair.

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What they’re saying

“New York City leads the nation in reducing traffic deaths, with progress driven by targeted, data-informed street redesigns and targeted enforcement against speeding, red-light running, and other dangerous driving behaviors.”

— Mike Flynn, NYC DOT Commissioner

“I carry the physical and psychological trauma of being hit by a car with me every day. We must use every available tool to prevent crashes that kill and seriously injure New Yorkers.”

— Kate Brockwehl, Families for Safe Streets-NY Co-Chair

What’s next

State legislation now pending in Albany would require intelligent speed assistance devices for drivers or vehicles accumulating too many speed camera tickets annually, officials said.

The takeaway

While the decline in traffic deaths across Queens is a positive step, the issue of 'super speeders' who repeatedly violate speed limits remains a concern that requires further action, such as the proposed 'Super Speeders' legislation, to ensure the safety of all road users.