A large number of traffic and pedestrian accidents in Bensonhurst have caught the attention of a local assemblyman who is calling on the DOT to make a change.

State Assemblyman William Colton is asking the Department of Transportation to look into why there have been so many injuries and fatalities in some areas. Recent incidents occurred at 21st Avenue and 86th Street, Stillwell Avenue and Bay Parkway, 73rd Street and 19th Avenue as well as 65th Street and 18th Avenue.

Vision Zero statistics show eight injuries in the area in 2017 and four injuries in 2018, along with one fatality. Colton says nearby streets are also seeing similar statistics.

In two letters sent to DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg, Colton asked whether the department can look into adding more street lights for visibility and reprogramming traffic lights to give pedestrians more time at crosswalks.

A spokesperson for the department responded in a statement, saying in part, "Following any fatality, DOT reviews the location for potential safety enhancements, and we are looking into potential Safety Improvement Projects within the assemblyman's district for 2019."

Coltonm says he also wants more safety training sessions, especially for the elderly.