Craig Rosenbaum | July 1, 2023 | Pedestrian Accidents
New York City is known for its busy streets and assertive drivers. Many people also walk and use public transportation. Unfortunately, traveling by foot in a bustling city comes with risks.
Pedestrian accidents occur when anyone on foot – walking, running, or jogging – sustains an injury when struck by a car, motorcycle, or bicycle. These accidents can be severe and, in some cases, fatal.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in NYC?
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, nationwide pedestrian fatalities reached a 40-year high in 2021. Despite this upward national trend, New York City’s pedestrian fatalities decreased by 6.3% in 2022 after implementing efforts to keep streets safer.
However, pedestrian injuries are among the top ten leading causes of hospitalization and fatalities in New York State. Around 15,000 New Yorkers are injured, and 300 are killed in pedestrian accidents each year.
Alcohol Use Can Increase the Likelihood of Pedestrian Accidents
Alcohol significantly impairs drivers, including their ability to react and drive safely. Driving under the influence can lead to severe accidents.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that alcohol was involved in 46% of fatal pedestrian crashes in 2019.
Pedestrian use of alcohol can also lead to accidents. Among those deceased pedestrians tested for alcohol, 28% had evidence of alcohol use. Pedestrians who use alcohol are more likely to be involved in a crash during the late night and early morning hours.
Common Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrian accident injuries can vary in severity. Some injuries are minor, while others result in lasting disabilities.
Soft Tissue Damage
These injuries include lacerations, contusions, sprains, strains, and tears.
Soft tissue injuries typically take less time to heal than other issues. But they can be severe. They can cause pain, scars, and long-term complications in some cases.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Pedestrians struck by vehicles can fracture their hands, wrists, shoulders, arms, legs, and back. Compound fractures can puncture the skin, leading to infection and further damage.
Fractures and broken bones can cause long-term problems. When a break is severe, the limb may require amputation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
The force of a collision can cause pedestrians to suffer concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Blows to the head or sudden jolts can cause these injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries can result in severe pain, confusion, sleep difficulties, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can also cause problems with concentration at work and school.
Concussions can have long-term effects. Post-concussive symptoms can persist long after the injury.
Whiplash may accompany a TBI when the head snaps back and forth in the blow. It can cause severe neck pain, and patients may have to wear a neck brace.
Spinal Cord Injury
In severe incidents, pedestrians can sustain spinal cord injuries, which can cause lasting disability and paralysis.
What Compensation Can You Receive After a Pedestrian Accident in NYC?
Individuals who experience a pedestrian accident in New York City may recover compensation from those at fault.
They may receive economic damages to cover the direct financial costs associated with the accident. They include emergency room fees, lost wages, and the cost of therapy and follow-up appointments.
Victims may also obtain non-economic damages for the intangible costs of their accident. These costs include pain and suffering.
New York courts award punitive damages in rare instances of malicious or reckless conduct to punish the wrongdoer.
A New York City Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You Recover Compensation for Your Pedestrian Accident Injuries
If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian accident, an attorney can help you gather evidence, calculate your damages, negotiate with opposing parties, and more. Their primary goal is to obtain fair compensation on your behalf, giving you time to focus on healing.
Contact an experienced NYC personal injury lawyer for a free consultation to discuss your pedestrian accident and legal options.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Law Firm in New York City
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our New York City pedestrian accident lawyers at Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C. to schedule a free consultation.
Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C.
100 Wall St 15th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(212) 514-5007