According to the New York State Department of Health, injuries to pedestrians are among the top ten leading causes of injury-related hospital admissions and death for almost all age groups throughout the state. Approximately 300 pedestrians are killed, and 15,000 are injured by motor vehicles each year on New York’s roadways.
Closer to home, in New York City, on average, 13 pedestrians are seriously injured each week. In less than six months this year, Staten Island had 247 pedestrian accidents, which, technically fewer than 3% of all pedestrian accidents in New York City, is still too many.
For over two decades, our Staten Island pedestrian accident and injury attorneys at David Resnick & Associates, P.C. have worked tirelessly to enforce New York laws that allow victims of negligence to hold the responsible party liable for damages resulting from the other party’s negligence. Once you partner with David Resnick & Associates, P.C., your physical, emotional, and financial well-being is the priority. Contact our skilled Staten Island pedestrian accident attorneys today to discuss your case and how the incident has impacted your life.
Our law firm represents accident victims throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx, and only works on a contingency basis. You do not pay our legal fees if we do not win your case. That’s a promise.
What Are The Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents on Staten Island, New York?
Pedestrian accidents, injuries, and fatalities are devastating because they often involve the most vulnerable road users—people who have little to no protection against the force of a moving vehicle.
Various factors related to driver behavior and environmental conditions are among the most common causes of pedestrian accidents on Staten Island. Unfortunately, our Richmond County pedestrian accident attorneys know most of these collisions, injuries, and fatalities result from driver behaviors that could have been prevented.
The impact of such accidents can lead to severe physical injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones, which may result in long-term disabilities or even death.
Some of the most common causes of Staten Island pedestrian accidents include, but are not limited to:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to overlook pedestrians, leading to accidents.
- Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way at crosswalks or intersections, especially when turning.
- Speeding: High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of injuries when a collision occurs.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to happen during low-light conditions, such as at night, dawn, or dusk, particularly in poorly lit areas where drivers may not see pedestrians.
- Left-Hand Turns Drivers making left-hand turns often focus on navigating the intersection and may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment and slower reaction times, making them more likely to hit pedestrians.
- Backing-Up Accidents: Vehicles backing out of driveways or parking spaces can strike pedestrians if the driver fails to check for people behind them.
- Aggressive Driving: Drivers who engage in road rage or aggressive behaviors, such as running red lights or stop signs, are more likely to cause pedestrian accidents.
- Inadequate Crosswalks and Signage: Areas with poorly marked crosswalks or insufficient pedestrian signals contribute to accidents, as drivers and pedestrians may be unsure who has the right-of-way.
- Road Construction and Obstructions: Construction zones or other road obstructions can create confusion and force pedestrians to walk in areas not intended for foot traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.
For the victims and their families, the consequences of pedestrian accidents extend beyond the physical, bringing emotional trauma, financial burdens from medical bills, lost wages, and the profound grief of losing a loved one. These sudden and often preventable tragedies make them particularly heartbreaking, leaving lasting scars on individuals and communities alike.
If you or someone you love has been injured while on foot in New York, contact our dedicated Staten Island pedestrian accident attorneys today to pursue the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
What Type of Compensation Can I Pursue During a Staten Island Pedestrian Accident Claim?
During a Staten Island pedestrian accident claim, you can pursue several types of compensation to cover the damages you may have suffered. However, each case is unique, so the specific types and compensation amounts you may be entitled to will depend on the circumstances of the accident, the severity of your injuries, and the impact on your life.
Consulting with our experienced Staten Island pedestrian accident attorneys can help ensure you pursue all applicable forms of compensation, which may include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, current, and future medical bills related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and necessary medical equipment.
- Lost Wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for your lost income during your recovery period. This also includes compensation for reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or working in the same capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensation covers the physical pain and emotional distress you endured as a result of the accident. It considers factors like the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and any long-term or permanent effects.
- Disability and Disfigurement: If the accident resulted in a permanent disability or disfigurement, you can pursue compensation for the long-term impact on your quality of life and physical appearance.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities or hobbies you once loved, you can seek compensation for this loss.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have negatively affected your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship, affection, and support.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the driver’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, you may be awarded punitive damages meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers on Staten Island can help you pursue compensation by navigating the complex legal process on your behalf and ensuring that all aspects of your case are thoroughly investigated and presented.
We will gather crucial evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports, to build a strong case demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
We will also negotiate with insurance companies that often try to minimize payouts, ensuring you receive a fair settlement covering your complete damages. If necessary, we can also take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities.
Contact Our Skilled Staten Island Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at David Resnick & Associates, P.C. To Help Build Your Case For Success
The legal team at David Resnick & Associates, P.C., understands the impact a pedestrian accident can have on you and your family. We work hard to obtain the maximum damages you’re entitled to. We serve accident victims in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, the Bronx, and New York City.
If you have questions about your pedestrian accident, contact the New York law firm of David Resnick & Associates, P.C., online or call us at 212-279-2000 today for a free consultation about your case.
There is never a charge to speak with our skilled Staten Island pedestrian accident attorneys. If your case qualifies to move forward, we will handle every aspect from start to finish without charging any upfront or out-of-pocket fees. You will pay nothing for our elite personal injury attorney services unless we win your case. That is a promise.