Statement from Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez on Recent Pedestrian Death

NEW YORK (January 17, 2020) - “The tragic news a 64-year-old woman fatally struck by a private sanitation truck yesterday serves as a reminder to drivers and pedestrians alike to be cautious, alert, and cross at the green and not in-between,” said New York City Department for the Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “Being hit by a vehicle is the second leading cause of injury-related death for older adults, but many of these incidents are preventable. We urge all New Yorkers to stay alert to save a life.”

In 2018, older adults ages 65 and older accounted for 13% of the City’s total population, but 50% of pedestrian traffic fatalities. The Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets program is an initiative focused on the safety of older pedestrians.

Learn more about Safe Streets for Seniors.

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The New York City Department for the Aging works to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality of life of New York City's diverse 1.6 million older adults. DFTA also works to support caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. DFTA is the largest area agency on aging in the U.S.

Media contact:
DFTA
Suzanne Myklebust
212-602-4153