New York City is Experiencing an 11% Increase in Traffic Deaths

According to nbcnewyork.com, New York City is experiencing one of its deadliest years in terms of traffic crashes, with an 11% increase in traffic deaths compared to last year and a trajectory that could make it the highest in nearly a decade.

The data released by Transportation Alternatives reveals that 51 people lost their lives in traffic crashes during the first quarter of this year, marking an 11% rise from the same period in 2022.

Should the trend observed in the first quarter of 2023 persist, the city could witness the highest level of traffic-related fatalities since 2014, according to the organization.

Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives, Danny Harris, emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of New Yorkers who are increasingly turning to biking. These measures include smaller vehicles, reduced speeds, protected bike and bus lanes, automated enforcement, and improved street design. Harris urged city leaders to address this crisis with the utmost urgency.

Queens, one of the city’s boroughs, accounted for at least one-third of the traffic deaths between January and March. Among the victims was Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old who was struck by an SUV whose driver allegedly failed to come to a complete stop at an intersection in Astoria.

The streets of New York City have been particularly perilous for cyclists, with a record-breaking number of nine riders killed during the same period, which is unprecedented under Vision Zero.

Transportation Alternatives highlighted that the cyclist fatalities in the first quarter of this year surpassed the combined numbers from 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. One of the victims, a 37-year-old mother who was struck by a truck while riding her bike in an unprotected bike lane in Gowanus, Brooklyn, in January.

Harris reiterated the urgency for New York City to prioritize the construction of safe infrastructure and fulfill its legal obligations, especially considering that only two-thirds of the mandated protected bike lanes were completed last year.

The Most Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents in NYC

In New York City, various types of pedestrian accidents can occur. Some common types include:

1. Vehicle-Pedestrian Collisions: These accidents involve a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle, such as a car, truck, bus, or motorcycle. They can occur at intersections, crosswalks, or while crossing the street outside designated areas.
2. Right-of-Way Violations: This type of accident happens when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian. For example, a driver may make a turn without giving pedestrians sufficient time to cross or ignore traffic signals and signs.
3. Door-Related Accidents: Also known as “dooring” accidents, these occur when a pedestrian is struck by a car door that is suddenly opened without warning. It commonly happens when a passenger or driver of a parked vehicle fails to check for approaching pedestrians or cyclists before opening the door.
4. Pedestrian-Cyclist Collisions: These accidents involve a collision between a pedestrian and a cyclist. They can occur on sidewalks, shared paths, or when pedestrians are crossing a bicycle lane.
5. Pedestrian Slip and Fall: Although not directly involving a vehicle, slip and fall accidents can occur on poorly maintained sidewalks, in parking lots, or on other surfaces where pedestrians walk. These accidents can result from hazardous conditions like ice, potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris.
6. Pedestrian Accidents Involving Public Transportation: Pedestrians may be involved in accidents with buses, taxis, or other forms of public transportation. These accidents can occur when crossing the street, entering or exiting vehicles, or waiting at bus stops.
7. Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers pose a significant risk to pedestrians. Accidents involving drunk driving can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
8. Hit-and-Run Accidents: Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in an accident with a pedestrian leaves the scene without stopping to provide assistance or exchange information. These incidents can make it challenging for pedestrians to receive immediate medical attention or seek legal recourse.

It’s important to note that each pedestrian accident is unique, and the circumstances surrounding them may vary. If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident in NYC, it is recommended to seek legal advice from professionals experienced in personal injury law to understand your rights and potential courses of action. Parker Waichman LLP is a personal injury law firm with several office locations to serve you better. If you or a loved one have been injured or lost a loved one in an accident, call our law firm as soon as possible to protect your legal right to pursue financial compensation and legal justice.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP for a Free Case Review

Were you or a loved one harmed in a pedestrian collision? Parker Waichman LLP helps families recover monetary compensation for harm caused by negligent drivers. For your free consultation, contact our law firm today by using our live chat or calling 800-968-7529.