Pedestrian Accident Injury

An accident on the streets of New York City can leave you in a great deal of pain both physically and financially. Some victims of automobile injuries can sustain serious, debilitating, or even life-threatening injuries. But even minor injuries can cause you to miss work, incur doctor’s bills, or suffer property damages. According to the state of New York, only eight percent of all traffic accidents state-wide involve a pedestrian. However, those accidents are far more likely to result in serious injuries or lead to deaths. Every year, hundreds of pedestrians are struck and killed by motor vehicles in New York, the majority of these accidents occurring in New York City. This is because urban areas like NYC tend to have a higher concentration of pedestrians to streets. As a result, New York City accounts for almost ¾ of all motor vehicle accidents involving a pedestrian state-wide and over half of all fatalities involving pedestrians. Car accidents involving a pedestrian are almost always the fault of the driver.

1. Speeding: Drivers who speed are at greater risk to hit a pedestrian, especially in New York’s more compact streets.
2. Drunk Driving: Those who drink and drive are more likely to cause a motor vehicle accident due to their impaired state and reduced reaction time.
3. Aggressive Drivers: Drivers who act aggressively are more likely to run a stop light or stop sign, or not yield the right of way to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
4. Distracted Drivers: If a driver is distracted, either by cell phone use, texting, or simply not paying attention, they are more likely to cause an accident. This is the most common cause of a motor vehicle accident in New York.

According to the New York City Department of Transportation, Brooklyn has the highest pedestrian fatality rate of all the city’s boroughs, and most pedestrian injuries tend to take place after 6 p.m. It is wise, therefore, for pedestrians to take care if they are walking in these times or locations.

Pedestrians who are involved in a motor vehicle accident are at higher risk to suffer a severe injury or death. The most common injuries sustained include bone fracture(s), head injuries, back injuries, internal organs and bruising/lacerations.

Being involved in a motor vehicle collision as a pedestrian is usually not your fault, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t measures you can take to protect yourself. Being aware of your surroundings, making sure to obey traffic laws, and protecting yourself while riding a bicycle or other non-motor vehicle are crucial measures you can take. In the event of a serious injury, be sure to consult with a personal injury attorney to discuss your options.