Can serious pedestrian accidents in New York be avoided?

As a resident of New York do you drive on a daily basis? Many would say, “Absolutely not!” Oftentimes the best way to get to your destination in the Big Apple is on foot. As a pedestrian, however, you are vulnerable to the danger of being hit by a car. This is a serious situation as you could be left with severe injuries if you are involved in a pedestrian accident. Just how common are pedestrian accidents and how can they be avoided?

The statistics

In New York State pedestrian injuries are among the top 10 reasons a person is admitted to the hospital for an injury. In New York State, over 3,000 people are admitted to the hospital each year after being struck by a vehicle. Annually, an estimated 300 pedestrians lose their lives in pedestrian accidents and a further 15,000 pedestrians are injured after being hit by a car. Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in New York State.

Preventing pedestrian accidents

There are many ways motorists can avoid causing a car accident involving a pedestrian. First, motorists must always be aware that there could be a pedestrian in their vicinity at all times. Motorists must take care to look out for pedestrians in conditions where visibility is lowered, such as adverse weather conditions or at night. If approaching a crosswalk, motorists should slow down and yield to pedestrians, even if this means they must stop. If a motorist does stop at an intersection, they should make sure they are behind the crosswalk so they and other drivers can see pedestrians crossing the street. Finally, drunk driving and speeding should be avoided always, for the safety of pedestrians and other motorists on the road.

Pedestrians have rights

If, as a pedestrian, you are struck by a car you may find yourself in a precarious financial situation, especially if you are unable to work due to your injury and the medical bills are mounting. Some pedestrians involved in a car crash may be able to pursue compensation for the harms they suffered by filing a personal injury claim. Doing so can help you out financially and provide a sense of closure so you can move forward following the collision.