Pedestrian Accidents in New York: Legal Help for Injured Victims
New York City’s busy streets see millions of cars, bicycles, and pedestrians daily. This creates a high risk of pedestrian accidents. According to statistics, more than 40% of traffic deaths in NYC involve pedestrians. The probability of injury is even higher, reaching a stunning 71%.
Victims in all these cases need legal help to navigate the complex process of filing claims and securing compensation. It includes figuring out who is at fault, determining coverage amounts, and obtaining compensation. A law firm near me suits victims to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Without professional help, justice is difficult to get.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents in New York occur for a variety of reasons. Drivers who break the rules are one of them. Speeding and aggressive driving intensify collision risks, especially in residential neighborhoods or near poorly lit streets. Moreover, hand-held phone calls are another common cause of accidents along with driving while intoxicated.
Pedestrian mistakes also play a role. Many of them cross the road in inappropriate places, ignoring nearby crosswalks or traffic lights. Others are distracted by their phones or listening to music on their headphones. Such actions often lead to pedestrian accidents, especially in heavy traffic.
Poor road infrastructure worsens the issue. Some areas lack necessary crosswalks or sidewalks, forcing people to cross the road in dangerous places. Poor lighting and blurred road markings impair visibility for drivers, especially in the dark.
Natural factors should not be forgotten either. Rain, snow, and ice often create additional difficulties for both drivers and pedestrians. Slippery roads and poor visibility increase the likelihood of accidents.
New York Pedestrian Protection Laws
NYC has strict laws to protect pedestrians and keep them safe on the roadways. These rules govern the behavior of both drivers and pedestrians themselves to minimize the risks of pedestrian accidents.
Pedestrian Priority
Under the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL § 1151), drivers are required to give way to pedestrians at crosswalks, whether controlled or uncontrolled. If a pedestrian has already entered the crosswalk, the driver must reduce speed or stop to let the pedestrian pass.
Nevertheless, pedestrians must also obey the rules. According to VTL § 1152, pedestrians must cross the road only at designated crosswalks, use traffic signals at regulated intersections, and avoid unexpected exits into the road.
Driver Liability
Failure to give way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk carries fines of up to $150 for a first offense, as well as penalty points on a driver’s license. If a driver violates the rules, and it results in injury or death to a pedestrian, they can be charged with a criminal offense such as negligent driving (VTL § 1212) or even causing death by negligence. This carries the risk of hefty fines, revocation of a driver’s license, and jail time.
What to Do As a Pedestrian After an Accident
If you have been the victim of a pedestrian accident in New York, it is important to act quickly and correctly. This will help keep you safe, document the accident, protect your rights, and strengthen your case:
- Stay where you are. Make sure you are in a safe area, away from moving traffic. If you are injured, try not to move until emergency services arrive. Call 911 to call the police and an ambulance.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention immediately. Internal injuries or concussions may show up later.
- Notify the police. Wait for the police to arrive and give a detailed description of what happened. The police report will be a key piece of evidence in your situation.
- Gather evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, damage, road signs, and road conditions.
- Contact an attorney. Engaging a law firm near me that specializes in pedestrian accident cases suits victims by helping them navigate the legal process. An attorney will assist in filing claims, determining insurance coverage, and negotiating with insurers.
Taking timely and knowledgeable action after an accident can help you not only recover but also get justice.
How The Rybak Firm Can Help You
Have you ever been injured in a pedestrian accident? We at The Rybak Firm know how to help you. Our company specializes in these cases and has an excellent understanding of NYC law.
From the moment you contact our company, we build a clear plan, gather evidence, and negotiate with an insurance company. Our goal is to maximize compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. Whether you’re dealing with an Uber driver accident or another type of pedestrian case, we provide personalized, cost-effective solutions that suit your needs.
Don’t be left alone with a problem. Call The Rybak Firm today, so we can begin working on your case.
Our office address is:
1810 Voorhies Ave
Suite #7
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Slip and fall lawyers, construction accident lawyer NYC, truck accident lawyer, car accident lawyer, New York medical malpractice lawyers, rear end car accident lawyers, New York no fault law, uber car accident, attorney for vehicle accident, motor vehicle lawyer, hit and run accident in New York, lyft car accident lawyer, pedestrian accident in New York.