New York City Pedestrian Accidents

When two motor vehicles collide the consequences can be disastrous, leaving injury and death in its wake. The people inside the cars are offered protection by various safety features, such as seat belts, air bags, and even the exterior of the vehicle itself. Therefore, it is not too difficult to imagine what happens when a motor vehicle collides with an unprotected pedestrian. The results are far worse.

More than 15,000 accidents involving pedestrians and motor vehicles occurred in the state of New York in 2007. Approximately, 15,000 people suffered personal injuries and 275 more died from these pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents.

Considering the congestion of New York City's roadways, it is no shock that more than 20 percent of New York State's pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents occur in Manhattan.

The key factor in pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents is vulnerability.  A pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle, whether it be a car, truck, bus, or taxi, is exceptionally vulnerable.  In fact, significant personal injuries and even death are more likely to occur when a vehicle strikes a pedestrian at a slow speed than when two vehicles collide at high speeds.  However, the legal standard for both types of accident cases are the same.  Negligence must be proven to have been a factor in the accident before a plaintiff can win the case. 

New York City is an exceptionally busy place.  The streets are constantly filled with cars, trucks, taxi cabs, and buses.  Pedestrians must often cross these same streets.  Even when obeying all traffic laws and being attentive to surroundings, the road can still be a dangerous place.  However, when drivers drive while intoxicated, are inattentive to the road, drive through a stop sign or red light, or are distracted (by a cell phone for example), the results can be deadly for pedestrians.  This type of negligence can hold a driver responsible for pedestrian injuries.

If negligence is a factor in your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost current and potential wages, and pain and suffering.

Vehicle operators and pedestrians share a responsibility to help keep roadways safe.  However, vehicle operators have a particular responsibility to yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and in crosswalks.  Pedestrians are at higher risk.  Therefore, drivers should always be alert to pedestrians on the street.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian-motor vehicle accident, contact the New York personal injury lawyers of David Resnick and Associates, PC today. Being familiar with New York City, we understand that it can be a dangerous place. We represent clients throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx. Our attorneys will strive to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (212) 279-2000 or contact us online for more information and a free case evaluation.

These Hubs are provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Professional legal counsel should be sought for specific advice relevant to your circumstances.