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Lever & Ecker, PLLC March 31, 2022 Car Accidents,Pedestrian Accidents,Personal injury
Throughout New York City, people spend a great amount of time traveling on foot, on bicycles, and on public transportation. However, in the past few years, the number of pedestrian accidents and fatalities has risen at alarming rates. The New York Post reports that from 2020 to 2021, pedestrian accidents increased 58%. Mayor Eric Adams hopes to reduce the number of fatal accidents within NYC by implementing a new plan to renovate 1,000 of the city’s most dangerous intersections.
By adding traffic-calming measures like bike corrals and new signals, Mayor Adams hopes to increase awareness of the dangers of pedestrian accidents and decrease their likelihood. One of these important new safety measures is raised crosswalks. As New York’s leadership pursues measures to protect pedestrians, New Yorkers hope that these new efforts will make the city’s intersections safer to cross.
As of April 2020, New York City’s population consists of 8,804,190 individuals. With so many people condensed into a geographically small area, accidents are common and may cause life-threatening injuries.
The following are four causes of pedestrian accidents on crosswalks in New York City:
While patience and waiting are a large part of New Yorkers’ life in the city, many drivers get frustrated with the traffic. A driver may impatiently make a turn without looking to see if any pedestrians are crossing.
One of the leading causes of accidents is distracted driving. Whether a driver is looking at their phone or changing the radio station, taking their eyes off the road for even a brief moment can cause a severe accident.
Intersections have rules that drivers must follow to ensure the safety of everyone in the area. Coming to a complete stop before making a turn and waiting for pedestrians to cross safely before driving are both examples of rules that drivers must uphold.
Certain intersections might have vegetation or objects blocking the driver’s vision of the crosswalk. However, it is the driver’s responsibility to slow down and double-check whether it is safe to continue driving.
With so many people commuting to work and daily activities in New York City, pedestrians are on every street corner. Drivers need to follow the rules and take precautions so that everyone can feel safe on the road.
A raised crosswalk is created when the walkway is elevated above the road with ramped speed tables and unique paving materials. Mayor Adams hopes that drivers will be more aware of their surroundings and of pedestrians by including these innovative walkways.
There are many benefits to implementing raised crosswalks throughout New York City, including:
Most raised crosswalks have detectable signs that warn drivers of a ramped walkway. For pedestrians with vision impairments, raised crosswalks have curb ramps and other distinguishable features for their own safety.
The increasing number of pedestrian accidents concerns many New Yorkers. It is hoped that the new systems and road additions will help stop the growing number of pedestrian fatalities within the city. However, if you or a family member suffer severe, life-threatening injuries in a pedestrian accident, contact our experienced pedestrian lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC.
We have 65+ years of experience protecting our clients’ rights by providing them with the legal representation they can trust. Our honest team will offer guidance on your best legal options and conduct a thorough investigation of your case. Our award-winning New York lawyers have your back.
Schedule a free consultation today by calling (914) 288-9191 or (718) 933-3632 and filling out our contact form.
