Pedestrian Accidents Increasing in NYC – A Growing Concern
The times are changing, but despite advancements in traffic controls and engineering, pedestrian injuries and fatalities continue to rise in New York City, particularly in the Upper West Side, Harlem, and Upper Manhattan. The numbers paint a grim picture:
Recent Pedestrian Accidents in NYC
- August 18, 2021: A 90-year-old woman was struck and killed by a livery cab while crossing at West 74th Street and Amsterdam. She was in the crosswalk when a black sedan hit her. The driver was charged with failure to yield to a pedestrian.
- April 19, 2021: A man was fatally struck on Central Park West between 62nd and 63rd Street. The driver dragged the pedestrian under the car before realizing what had happened. No charges were filed.
- August 6, 2021: A driver was arrested for a hit-and-run that killed a pedestrian on the Upper West Side.
- June 29, 2021: A cyclist was hit and killed by a UPS truck attempting a right turn at West 86th and Central Park West.
- Another accident in Washington Heights left one pedestrian dead and three others injured when a vehicle turned left onto W 183rd Street.
Pedestrian Deaths Have Increased
What do these tragic accidents have in common?
- No traffic cameras captured the incidents.
- Many occurred in broad daylight.
- Speeding was a major factor.
Traffic lights and walk signals alone are not enough to prevent pedestrian accidents. Many intersections, especially on Broadway, Central Park West, and West End Avenue, see heavy traffic, speeding taxis, and delivery vehicles rushing to their next fare or destination. In fact, pedestrian deaths increased by 46% between 2010 and 2019.
Solutions to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
City officials must put pressure on the NYC Department of Transportation to implement safety measures, including:
- Increased police presence and traffic enforcement at high-risk intersections.
- Installation of traffic cameras to capture violations.
- Redesigning dangerous intersections with improved signals, raised crosswalks, and extended pedestrian walk times.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Most pedestrian accidents occur due to:
- Distracted driving (texting, adjusting the radio, talking on the phone).
- Speeding and reckless driving.
- Poorly designed streets and intersections that fail to accommodate pedestrian traffic safely.
Severe Injuries Sustained by Pedestrians
Pedestrians are extremely vulnerable when struck by vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis.
- Lacerations and permanent scarring.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage.
- Chronic pain and back injuries.
How Pedestrians Can Stay Safe
While drivers must be held accountable, pedestrians can also take steps to protect themselves:
- Stay alert – Look in both directions before stepping off the curb.
- Don’t assume vehicles will stop – Even if you have the right of way.
- Avoid distractions – Remove headphones and don’t use your phone while crossing.
- Be mindful of walk signal countdowns – If time is running out, wait for the next cycle.
- Hold children’s hands – Never let them cross ahead of you.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
- Call 911 immediately – Don’t refuse medical attention.
- Document the scene – Take photos of your injuries and the accident location.
- Get witness information – Their testimony may be crucial.
- Follow medical advice – Stick to your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Keep records – Save medical bills and track lost wages.
Hiring the Right Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is critical. A lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident scene and obtain evidence like traffic light timing or video footage.
- Locate witnesses to strengthen your case.
- File a No-Fault Application for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) to cover medical bills and lost wages up to $50,000.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Lemmo Law Today
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, do not speak to insurance adjusters or negotiate on your own. You need a skilled attorney to protect your rights.
Call Lemmo Law at 646-522-9082 or email edwardlemmo@yahoo.com for a free consultation. Let us fight for you.
