Pedestrian safety continues to be a problem in New York after a new report from the Governor’s Highway Safety Association showed our state had one of the highest pedestrian accident counts in the nation. The study was examining trends in the number of pedestrian accidents in each state during the six month period between January-June each year. While New York pedestrian accident numbers declined in 2014 from 2013, the state still had the fourth highest accident count in the nation. Data indicates that from January-June 2013, there were 156 New York pedestrian accidents. In 2014, that number declined by 44 accidents to 112. Despite this significant decrease, New York still ranked behind only California, Florida, and Texas. These numbers reiterate the need for a focus on pedestrian safety in our state. That’s why the Buffalo personal injury lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices would like to remind you about several ways you can help to keep our roadways safe for everyone. Motorists should:
- Be Vigilant- Stop at all marked intersections and look twice in both directions before entering the crossing. Also, be extra cautious and watch for pedestrians when driving in low-light conditions between dusk and dawn.
- Yield Right-of-Way- It’s important for motorists to remember that at marked crosswalks, pedestrians have the right-of-way if signage is telling them to walk. So, be sure to slow down and come to a stop at such crossings.
- Obey Traffic Laws- This means crossing streets only in designated crosswalks, using sidewalks when available, and obeying all street lights and signs.
- Be Seen- Carry a flashlight and wear light-colored or reflective clothing when walking after dark or before the sun comes up.