There’s going to be a new bike share operator here in the City.
New York City Bike Share (NYCBS) recently made the announcement that Citi Bike will be kicking off operations next March. First, there will be about 7,000 bicycles at more than 400 stations. According to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYSCDOT), the program will still be using the more than $41 million in private funds from Citi Bike. This money is available to the program for five years and helps to ensure that NYCBS will split profits with the City.
“The enthusiasm for this program continues to grow and we look forward to bringing this affordable new transportation option to New Yorkers without cost to taxpayers,” said Janette Sadik-Khan, NYCDOT Commissioner.
Our Queens bicycle accident lawyers know heavy bicycle and pedestrian traffic improves road congestion but increases the chance of commuter accidents with these vulnerable travelers. While walking or biking may be highly efficient, it can also be very dangerous. Bicyclists and pedestrians are ultimately extremely vulnerable for serious injuries or death in the event of an accident with a motor vehicle. As bicycles become more and more common the city, we’re reaching out to motorists and asking them to be more cautious out there.
Citi Bike is a self-service bicycle system that provides users with easy access to a network of thousands of bicycles throughout our area. All you have to do is pick up a bike close to work or home and ride it. When you’re done, all you have to do is take it back to any of the hundreds of bike-sharing stations that will be located throughout the city.
More than half of all New Yorkers make routine trips that are less than 2 miles. Bicycles and these sharing programs make these trips a whole lot easier and inexpensive for everyone! Unfortunately, the use of these bicycles is expected to increase the number of accidents. Drivers and bicyclists are asked to be ready for the increase in bicycling traffic and work together to make our roadways safe for all. Bicyclists have rights on our streets too, and we need to make sure that everyone’s rights are protected.
According to Alison Cohen, President of NYCBS, the bicycling program is continuing on in its effort to bring not only the best, but the largest solar-powered bike-sharing system to the city. She says that she recognizes that residents and visitors are eagerly awaiting this launch and they’re excited to kick it all off.
Officials are expected to eventually expand this system to about 10,000 bikes. It’s expected to go through areas in Brooklyn, parts of Long Island and even areas in Manhattan.
In New York alone, there were close to 40 bicyclists who were killed in traffic accidents in 2010, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact injury attorney Nicholas Rose, PLLC for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call 1-877-313-7673.
More Blog Entries:
Commercial Bicycle Accidents in NYC: Employees Have Rights & Responsibilities, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, July 21, 2012
Bicycle Accidents in Queens: Summer Risks Remain, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, June 17, 2012
