Pedestrian Accidents in New York

Each year, approximately 300 pedestrians are killed, and 15,000 are injured in accidents on the busy streets of New York. While fatalities have been trending downward for several years, there are still hundreds of pedestrians losing their lives yearly.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. At The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III, our personal injury lawyers specialize in handling pedestrian accident cases in New York, and we are here to help you navigate the legal complexities associated with these unfortunate incidents.

The Prevalence of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are more common in New York City than in many other parts of the country. The dense population, heavy traffic, and bustling city life contribute to a higher risk of pedestrian accidents.

According to data from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, pedestrian accidents accounted for a significant portion of traffic accidents in the state. Understanding the causes and consequences of these accidents is crucial for residents and visitors alike.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, but some common factors include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers distracted by their smartphones, GPS devices, or other distractions may not notice pedestrians in their vicinity, leading to accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents when they occur.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections can cause serious accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers are more likely to collide with pedestrians, as their judgment and reaction times are compromised.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions like rain or snow can reduce visibility and increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Cracked sidewalks, potholes, and other road hazards can contribute to trips and falls, potentially resulting in injuries.

Legal Responsibilities of Drivers in New York

New York State has strict laws to protect pedestrians, and drivers must adhere to these regulations. Some key legal responsibilities include:

• Stopping for Pedestrians in Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in or about to enter a crosswalk.
• Stopping for School Buses: Motorists must stop when a school bus picks up or drops children, as pedestrians are often present in these situations.
• Obeying Traffic Signals: Drivers must obey traffic signals and stop at red lights, allowing pedestrians to cross the road when they have the right of way.
• Exercising Due Care: Drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians and give an audible warning when necessary.
• Yielding at Intersections: When turning at an intersection, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks.

New York’s Comparative Negligence Law

New York follows a comparative negligence law, which means that if you were partially at fault for the pedestrian accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in New York to determine how this law may impact your case.

How a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help

If you are injured as a pedestrian, you have legal rights. Our pedestrian accident attorney can provide the following services to help with your case.

Investigating Your Case

When you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, gathering evidence to establish liability is essential. Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records to build a strong case on your behalf.

Evaluating Damages

Injuries from pedestrian accidents can be severe and life-changing. Our legal team will work diligently to assess the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical expenses. We’ll ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts. Our pedestrian accident attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and will strive to secure the maximum settlement possible for your case.

Pursuing Legal Action

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, our skilled attorneys will not hesitate to pursue legal action on your behalf. We will represent your interests in court and fight for your rights every step of the way.

Why Choose The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III

Our law firm has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in pedestrian accident cases throughout New York. With years of experience and a deep understanding of state laws and regulations, we can handle even the most complex cases.

Personalized Legal Representation

At The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III, we believe in providing personalized legal representation tailored to each client’s unique needs. We understand that every pedestrian accident case is different, and we take the time to listen to your story and craft a legal strategy that aligns with your goals.

No Fee Unless We Win

We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be financially challenging. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything unless we successfully recover compensation for your case.

Compassionate and Supportive Team

Pedestrian accidents can be traumatic experiences, and our compassionate team is here to support you throughout the legal process. We’ll answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide guidance during this difficult time.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, don’t hesitate to seek legal representation. The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III, is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation with a dedicated New York pedestrian accident lawyer. Let us be your advocate in your pursuit of justice and financial recovery.