Traffic Deaths Decline Across Queens, New Report Finds

New York City traffic fatalities hit near-record lows in 2026, with Queens contributing to citywide progress on Vision Zero goals.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:08pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the blurred silhouettes of pedestrians and vehicles on a city street, conveying a sense of urban movement and progress on traffic safety.The vibrant streets of Queens have become safer for all travelers as traffic fatalities decline across the borough.Queens 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. Citywide traffic deaths fell to near-record lows for the first quarter, down 7 percent from last year.

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.
  • In 2024, 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

The decline in traffic deaths across Queens demonstrates the positive impact of Vision Zero initiatives and street safety redesigns, but more work is needed to address persistent issues like 'super speeders' and ensure all New Yorkers can travel safely.