After nine cyclists were killed in Suffolk County this year alone, residents are wondering what is being done to make cycling safer.
Bicycling Magazine says Suffolk County consistently ranks as the most dangerous place in the nation for cyclists. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, 22 people died in cycling accidents in Suffolk between 2010 and 2012.
Suffolk police say there are more registered drivers and more cars on the road in Suffolk than anywhere else in the state. Another reason there are many bicycle accidents, according to the state, is because of distracted drivers.
County Executive Steve Bellone says when Suffolk's roads were designed decades ago, not much thought was given to cyclists or pedestrians. Suffolk recently adopted "Complete Streets," a state program requiring road designers to consider more than just the needs of cars.
Bellone also launched a public service announcement in an effort to raise awareness about the issue among drivers.