Attorney Daniel Flanzig recently addressed how New York City’s infrastructure is not prepared to handle the increase of e-scooters and e-bikes this summer to CBS2 News, as a new pilot program begins in the Bronx. However, the tragic death of actress Lisa Banes highlights the new dangers of such micro-mobility devices.
Known for her roles in “Gone Girl” and “A Cure for Wellness,” Banes died on June 14, 2020, after succumbing to her injuries from a hit-and-run accident on the Upper West Side involving a scooter 10 days earlier. She was visiting New York from Los Angeles and was supposed to perform in a Manhattan Theatre Club production.
On June 4, the 65-year-old actress was crossing Amsterdam Avenue at West 64th Street, when a scooter ran a red light, striking the actress, who had the right of way. The person operating the scooter has yet to be found.
Her death adds to the increase of pedestrian-related traffic fatalities in New York City. According to CBS2 News, Banes’ death is one of 60 pedestrian traffic deaths in 2021, which is an 87-percent jump from last year’s numbers.
Transportation advocates believe similar tragedies will continue to increase as e-scooters and e-bikes are now being used more and more compared to public transit. In 2020, NYC legalized the two modes of transportation in 2020 and announced a pilot program for e-scooters starting in the Bronx this summer.
However, Attorney Flanzig has doubts regarding the pilot program’s success.
He said to CBS2:
“There really was no oversight when these programs were launched and now what we’re doing is trying to play catch-up.”
When he visited the scene of the tragic hit-and-run accident, Attorney Flanzig witnessed e-scooters and e-bikes recklessly racing down the street, despite a flashing warning sign for crossing pedestrians.
Mayor Bill de Blasio is aware of the dangers associated with e-bikes and e-scooters and vows to keep refining regulations to properly enforce traffic laws. Additionally, he also presented the option of shutting down companies that willfully or recklessly disregard the safety of New Yorkers.
If you were injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident in New York, do not hesitate to contact Flanzig & Flanzig, LLP today at (888) 290-5994 and let us help you maximize your entitled compensation.