Photo by Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash
The city that never sleeps, the New York City motto that still holds true. At all hours of the day and night, people are driving or walking through the crisp air of the city.
Constant moving within the boroughs leads to a significant number of pedestrian accidents.
Tragically, pedestrian accidents have been on the rise since the early 2020s. In the first six months of 2021, 3,441 pedestrians[i] have been struck and killed by drivers.
In New York City specifically, in the first quarter of 2022, the rate of pedestrians being struck and killed by motor vehicles has increased 44% [ii]from the first three months of 2021.
There is an epidemic of pedestrians being struck by motor vehicles and receiving injuries or being killed. Pedestrians are 10 times more likely to die[iii] than an occupant in a motor vehicle during an accident.
Being a safe driver, as well as being a safe pedestrian can help lower these significant but tragic rates in New York City and around the world.
Crosswalks
On almost every street corner, you see a crosswalk. A crosswalk is any area distinctly indicated for pedestrian[i] crossing whether by lines or markings.
However, just because crosswalks are designated for pedestrians, does not mean pedestrians always have the right of way.
- Pedestrians must abide by the pedestrian-control signal indications in section 1112iv
- Pedestrians may walk when the facing signal is in a steady WALK or walking personiv.
- Pedestrians should not walk when the facing signal is flashing DON’T WALK or an upraised handiv, but if a pedestrian began their walk they may complete it.
- Pedestrians shall not walk when the facing signal is in a steady DON’T WALK or upraised handiv.
Abiding by these rules will make it safe for you, other pedestrians, and for the drivers on the road.
Jaywalking
In a rush, or going to be late for a meeting, you may believe you do not have the time to wait for the steady walk or walking person at the crosswalk.
You may think there are no cars, I can walk across and be perfectly fine and save two minutes on my trip! Not only is that breaking the law as jaywalking violates section 1152iv of New York Traffic and Violation Laws states but walking in this manner is incredibly dangerous.
The principle that you cannot visually see a vehicle straight ahead or to the side does not mean that there are no vehicles on the road.
Vehicles could be backing out or pulling into a spot, garage, or parking lot without you even knowing it.
Jaywalking could lead to a serious personal injury. If hit by a vehicle, please receive medical accommodation immediately.
Awareness
You can help yourself and others prevent pedestrian accidents by being aware of your surroundings.
Many pedestrian accidents have occurred from a lack of awareness within the crosswalk and the road.
For example, if the signal is a flashing hand, you should accurately estimate if you have enough time to walk, instead of running across.
Especially in New York City, the sidewalks are overly crowded. Bumping into people left and right is not comfortable. Sidewalks may also not be in the best condition. However, you should not walk on the street if this were to occur.
Entering the street when you are not abided by can lead to a pedestrian accident.
Shalom Law, PLLC, is here to help if you have been in a pedestrian-vehicle accident.
As A Driver, What Can I Do to Help Stop the Number Of Pedestrian-Vehicle Accidents?
New York City driving is not an easy task, nor a short one. From traffic to red lights, you can spend hours in the car.
When you are driving, remember the importance of going the speed limit. New York City’s standard speed limit is 30 mphiii. Going above that can result in many accidents. Drivers that are speeding may visually see the pedestrian; however, they may underestimate when to break causing a pedestrian accident.
When you are driving be aware of your surroundings. Pedestrians could be jaywalking at a green light.
Driving in New York City can be tedious. The roads are narrow and the number of vehicles on the road is exponential. Pedestrians may be on the side of the road or in between you and another vehicle.
Having full clarity on the road is critical. Do not go on your phone, or laptop, read a book or engage in any other activity that may distract you from the road ahead.
Although being a safe and cautious driver is crucial to preventing pedestrian accidents, there are still a significant number of pedestrian-vehicle accidents.
Pedestrians, we got your back!
If you or a loved one has been injured by a motor vehicle, please receive immediate medical personnel assistance.
Next, call an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney. You will need an attorney on your side who knows how to best utilize your medical records to substantiate your claim for losses while also navigating around the evasive tactics of insurance companies. The attorneys at Shalom Law can do just that. We are prepared to fight hard for you to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation: (718) 917-9474.
