New York accident risk worsening even with safety initiatives
In New York, regardless of a person’s job, financial situation, education and age, road safety is a concern. Simply driving to work, riding a bicycle or taking a walk can place people at risk of serious injuries and fatalities in an automobile accident. Other drivers might be speeding, driving while distracted, driving under the influence or just ignoring the basics of safety. No matter how the accident happens, people can face physical, emotional and financial ramifications because of it.
Campaign for safer streets as accidents spike
Road safety has become a primary issue throughout New York City and safety initiatives are being implemented. Still, judging by the latest statistics and anecdotal evidence, the circumstances have yet to improve. A campaign imploring drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and reduce their speed went into effect. Unfortunately, in the subsequent week, there were an estimated 12 fatalities in auto accidents.
Pedestrians, bicyclists and those on scooters are at direct risk and anyone can be a victim. Examples include an elderly man on an electric scooter and a high school student. Although slowing down will undoubtedly be a positive, other problems like poorly designed roads and dangerous behaviors behind the wheel are known contributors to accidents. Through the first week of May, there had been 79 traffic fatalities in New York City. That was up from 68 at the same time in 2021.
The Vision Zero program is eight years old and set out to make the streets safer. However, the initiatives have been moderately effective at best. As the city redesigns its streets, rolls out safety programs and increases enforcement, it is also trying to place more speed cameras to catch and cite drivers who go beyond the speed limits.
After an auto accident, knowing the options is vital
It is never easy when a person is injured or a loved one is lost in an auto accident. If it happened because a driver was behaving recklessly or was breaking the law, it is even worse. The emotional toll is enormous and then there will be the financial costs. From hospitalization, surgical procedures, rehabilitation, lost income from being unable to work, the need to care for a person who cannot care for themselves and more, it can be overwhelming. When there is a fatality, funeral costs and the future will come to the forefront.
People who are in this situation should understand the value of being protected when insurance companies make settlement offers and the investigation is underway. From the beginning, it is useful to have help with assessing the case and taking the necessary steps to cover all that was lost.