New York City pedestrians, rejoice: the 2017 number of traffic fatalities was the lowest on record since 1910! This statistic is something to be happy about, since across the board in other states pedestrian deaths continue to rise. So what is New York doing differently that’s working? Well, in 2014 New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio implemented “Vision Zero,” an initiative aimed at reducing traffic fatalities. De Blasio borrowed the idea from Sweden, where it originated and where the authorities believe that pedestrian deaths are a “failure of street design.” Vision Zero introduced speed limit reductions from 30 to 25 miles per hour, criminal charges against traffic violators, more frequent use of speed cameras, and slow zones, among other things.
So far the plan seems to be working. It forces often-distracted drivers to look away from their cellphones and pay attention to the road. Texting or switching a song on Spotify for 10 seconds is all it takes to get into a deadly crash. With how many people drive, bike, skate, scooter, glide, ride, and walk through New York City streets every single day, it’s a miracle our statistics are as good as they are. Let’s keep it that way.
DRIVER SAFETY TIPS
As a driver, it is of the utmost importance for you to keep an eye on pedestrians. Whether you or the pedestrian is at fault for an accident is of little importance – you are protected by steel while the pedestrian will suffer the brunt of the impact.
Many drivers break the law and end up colliding with pedestrians due to stress. Don’t turn into an aggressive driver simply because you are in a hurry. Whatever you are hurrying to is not worth someone’s life. Remember to always give yourself extra time to travel to places. If you have an important presentation at work and you know you might encounter traffic, leave early. Speeding mixed with a distracted mind can equal a deadly collision in a matter of seconds.
Here are a few other important safety tips to follow.
- Always yield to pedestrians.
- Watch out for pedestrians, especially when making a turn.
- Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
- Obey the speed limit.
- Don’t open your car door rapidly; look in your mirror before doing so.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY TIPS
Walking is an essential part of life as a New Yorker. Commuting to work, taking the dog for a walk, or taking a leisurely stroll are all great activities. However, it’s easy to get distracted while walking. Whether you’re talking on your cell, or day-dreaming about what you’re going to have for lunch, even a momentary lapse in focus can result in an accident. That’s why it’s important to follow some basic safety rules while walking:
- Stay visible by wearing bright/reflective clothing.
- Always walk in designated areas such as sidewalks.
- Pay attention to pedestrian signals, but also stay vigilant by checking the road with your own eyes.
- Cross the street in appropriate locations.
- Watch for cars making a turn. Stop and make sure they are aware that you’re on the road. Don’t assume they will stop for you.
- Try to avoid distractions such as music and cellphones.
If you see aggressive drivers, do not hesitate to report them. You might be saving someone else’s life by doing so. Aggressive drivers show a blatant disregard for the safety of others, and they are a hazard on NYC roads. If you observe a driver running a red light or stop sign, tailgating other cars, not yielding to pedestrians, weaving in and out of lanes, or speeding, you can absolutely report him or her for breaking the law.
Do not engage the driver yourself; instead, please call the police and provide them with the color, make, model, license plate state, and license plate number of the vehicle. If you can, include a general description of the driver, such as sex, race, age, and hair color, as well as the location where you observed him/her breaking the law.
IF YOU WERE HIT BY A NEGLIGENT DRIVER, TALK TO US
Recovering from a car accident can be a long and trying process. You shouldn’t have to worry about paperwork or medical bills as you focus on your healing. Let the dedicated New York car accident attorneys at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP help you.
If you or someone you know sustained injuries from being hit by a car, contact The Case Handler team at PPID for a free initial consultation at 929-223-4195. Our team will be happy to explain your legal rights and investigate whether you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost time at work, and other costs of the accident.
