Queens News: Winter’s Coming! Drivers Watch Out for Pedestrians

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NYC Launches ‘Dusk and Darkness’ Campaign to Protect Pedestrians as Sunsets Come Earlier 


Queens Voice

November 4, 2025


QUEENS NEWS - As New Yorkers prepare to turn their clocks back this weekend, city officials are urging drivers to take extra care on the roads during the darker evening hours.


On Thursday, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) and NYPD kicked off the annual “Dusk and Darkness” safety campaign — an effort aimed at reducing pedestrian crashes that tend to spike in the fall, when sunset arrives during the evening rush.


“With the sun setting earlier, the risks for pedestrians rise,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Our Dusk and Darkness campaign reminds drivers to slow down, turn carefully, and remain alert behind the wheel.”


Shorter Days, Higher Risks


When daylight saving time ends this Sunday, Nov. 2, evening commutes will suddenly take place in near-darkness — a dangerous combination of reduced visibility and heavy traffic. According to city officials, this period has historically seen some of the highest fatal crash rates of the year.


“Visibility changes quickly at this time of year, and that momentary difference can mean life or death for a pedestrian or cyclist,” said NYPD Chief of Transportation Olufunmilola Obe. “Our officers will be out in force to protect everyone on our streets.”


So far, 2025 has been one of the safest years on record for city streets, with traffic fatalities down 18% compared to the same time last year. Still, officials say there’s no room for complacency.


What the City Is Doing



The Dusk and Darkness campaign, first launched in 2016, combines public education, enforcement, and outreach. This year’s efforts include:


  • Day of Awareness: DOT and NYPD Vision Zero Street Teams visited high-traffic areas across the five boroughs this week to remind commuters about the increased dangers during darker evening hours.


  • Increased Enforcement: NYPD officers will step up patrols during late afternoon and evening shifts, focusing on speeding, failure to yield, distracted driving, and other hazardous violations. Traffic agents will also target double-parking and vehicles blocking crosswalks or bike lanes.


  • Social Media Outreach: City agencies are using social media to alert drivers about reduced visibility and the need to follow the 25 mph citywide speed limit.


  • For-Hire Vehicle Safety: The Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) will reach out to professional drivers with reminders to stay alert and drive carefully during low-visibility periods.


“When it’s sunset, change your mindset,” said TLC Commissioner and Chair David Do. “This is when pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers are most at risk.”


Shared Responsibility


Other city leaders joined the call for vigilance.



“Every New Yorker should feel safe walking along our city’s streets,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “As fall evenings bring earlier sunsets, we know pedestrian injuries increase. Staying alert and looking out for one another can save lives.”


DCAS Commissioner Louis A. Molina added that safety is a collective effort: “Every act of caution on our streets helps move us closer to a safer New York City for all.”


Safety advocates also praised the campaign. Eric McClure, executive director of StreetsPAC, encouraged drivers to “slow down and stay focused,” while AAA Northeast’s Alec Slatky urged motorists to check headlights and be mindful of fatigue as sleep patterns shift.


Bike New York CEO Ken Podziba reminded cyclists to do their part as well: “Use lights, wear reflective gear, and ride predictably. The Dusk and Darkness campaign is a vital call to action for everyone to share the road responsibly.”


A Call to Stay Vigilant



As the days grow shorter, city officials are reminding all New Yorkers that awareness can be lifesaving.



“With earlier sunsets, everyone on the road — drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians — needs to be extra cautious,” said Commissioner Rodriguez. “If we all do our part, we can make sure this remains one of the safest years in New York City history.”

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