Intersections can be dangerous places for pedestrians. With cars making turns, and some drivers not paying attention, accidents can occur in these busy traffic spots. At crosswalks especially, where there may or may not be a marked crossing area, pedestrians can be struck by oncoming traffic and suffer serious injuries.
Pedestrian accidents happen every day at intersections. When they do, William Mattar law offices is here to help. We know how stressful an accident injury can be and will help guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to speak to one of our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys – just dial (844) 444-4444. Our team is available 24/7.
New York Intersection Laws
In New York State, there are specific intersection-related laws that both drivers and pedestrians must obey. These laws are contained in the Vehicle and Traffic Law. For instance, drivers must yield to pedestrians who legally use a crosswalk (both marked and unmarked). If a signal turns green, a motorist must wait for any pedestrians in the crosswalk to exit the crosswalk before proceeding. Motorists must also yield to pedestrians when making a left or right turn.
Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks. However, they are still expected to abide by all pedestrian traffic signals. These include the “Walk” or “Don’t Walk” traffic signals used in most intersection crosswalks. If there is one, pedestrians should cross in designated crosswalk areas. Crossing in the middle of the road is called “jaywalking” and is illegal in New York. Notably, New York is a comparative fault jurisdiction - meaning that, if the driver and pedestrian are both partially at fault, the injured person is generally entitled to make a claim for pain and suffering.
If a driver or pedestrian fails to follow applicable traffic laws, they may be at an increased risk of causing an accident. A driver who does not give a pedestrian the right of way, resulting in an accident, will likely be liable for any injuries sustained. If you were involved in a pedestrian intersection crash, contact a personal injury lawyer today who can help determine who is at fault for the accident.
Causes of Pedestrian Intersection Accidents
Pedestrian-vehicle accidents can occur in an intersection because:
- A driver fails to yield the right of way;
- A pedestrian crosses unlawfully;
- A lack of visibility (poor weather conditions, inadequate headlights, an obstructed view);
- Distracted driving, such as texting behind the wheel; and
- Drunk driving.
Alcohol impairment is a leading cause of pedestrian fatalities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 47 percent of accidents that resulted in the death of a pedestrian involved alcohol. If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian intersection accident, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We will get started on your claim right away.
Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrian accidents can be devastating. Because pedestrians do not have the protection of a vehicle, the impact of a collision can cause severe injuries. There are a few common types of injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (such as skull fractures);
- Internal injuries (such as internal bleeding);
- Broken bones;
- Fractures;
- Spinal injuries; and
- Lacerations.
Because of the nature of pedestrian accidents, they are sometimes fatal. According to the CDC, 5,977 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. in 2017. Even more pedestrians are sent to the emergency room every year as a result of accident-related injuries. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, or have lost a loved one a motorist struck, contact William Mattar today.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
Pedestrian accident injuries can leave victims with enormous medical bills and other out-of-pocket expenses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact us as soon as possible. The pedestrian accident lawyers at William Mattar can help fight for you to receive maximum compensation. Schedule a free initial consultation appointment today—complete our online consultation form or call (844) 444-4444.