Common Injuries in A Rear-End Collision

Rear-end collisions are very common. The damages incurred from such accidents can be catastrophic. In addition, the financial impact can be devastating. A rear-end accident occurs when the front bumper of one car collides with the back end of another car. In some cases, injuries can be minor. However, some injuries can be major and life-threatening.

Whiplash injuries are the most common form of rear-end collision injuries. These cause damage to the skeletal structure and nerves as a result of the head, neck, spine, muscles, ligaments and tendons bracing the impact of the collision in a second or two. Besides whiplash injuries, some other common injuries in a rear-end collision are:

·         Head injuries

·         Brain injuries

·         Damage to teeth and jaw

·         Broken bones

·         Facial fractures and disfigurement

·         Full or partial paralysis

·         Amputations

·         Organ Damage

It is imperative to seek medical treatment, no matter how minor the injury may appear.

The Extent of Your Injuries Depends on the Following Factors:

·         Type of Vehicles Involved

·         Rate of Speed of the Vehicle at the Time of Collision

·         Location of Impact

·         If Seatbelts Were Worn

·         Airbag Deployment

·         Seat Back Angle

·         Seat Back and Headrest Height

Common Types of Rear-End Collision Injuries

What is a rear-end collision? Can it lead to serious injuries? What are the common types of rear-end collision injuries?

A rear-end accident occurs when the front bumper of one car collides with the back end of another car. In some cases, injuries can be minor. However, some injuries can be major and life-threatening. Rear-end collisions are very common. Besides whiplash injuries, some other common injuries in a rear-end collision are:

·         Head injuries

·         Brain injuries

·         Damage to teeth and jaw

·         Broken bones

·         Facial fractures and disfigurement

·         Full or partial paralysis

·         Amputations

·         Organ Damage

What are the advantages of settling a personal injury case?

Here are some of the advantages:

·         It is less expensive.

·         It is less stressful.

·         It can result in faster resolution.

·         It protects your privacy.

·         It allows you to be in control of the situation.

Advantages of Settling Your Personal Injury Case

Negotiating a settlement with the help of an attorney or going to court and allowing a judge to decide the case are two ways to recover compensation after a personal injury accident. Recovering damages in a personal injury accident does not always require a judge’s decision. You may choose to settle your case with the help of your lawyer. Here are some advantages of negotiating a settlement with the at-fault party:

A settlement is less expensive: If you decide to settle your case, you may not be required to pay your attorney’s fee, the additional cost of expert witnesses, or for paperwork and travel. Not only this, you will not have to miss out on work. Going to court will require you to bear all these expenses.

It is less stressful: A court case involves a lot of stress. Going to court every day to testify and not knowing what the outcome may be can take a toll on you mentally. A settlement can help you avoid all this tension.

It can result in faster resolution: Most court cases take months or even years to reach a resolution. However, negotiating a settlement can shorten the time to recover damages.

It protects your privacy: A court case makes all documents public. A settlement document includes a confidentiality agreement that keeps every case private.

It allows you to be in control of the situation: Negotiating a settlement will allow you to remain in control of the situation. It is up to you to agree or disagree to a settlement amount. You do not have to rely on a judge to decide the outcome of case. However, in a court case, the outcome of your case depends on the jury’s decision.

Advantages of Settling Your Personal Injury Case

I have suffered injuries in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. My attorney suggested two ways to recover damages for my injuries: filing a lawsuit or settling the case by negotiating a settlement. I am confused. Which is the better way?

Recovering damages for injuries sustained in a personal injury accident does not always require a judge’s decision. You can choose to settle your case through negotiation with the help of your attorney. Although a settlement may not be the right choice for everyone, it has certain advantages:

·         It is less expensive.

·         It is less stressful.

·         It can result in faster resolution.

·         It protects your privacy.

·         It allows you to be in control of the situation.

       ·         It is less expensive. 

How Can I hold a Property Owner Responsible for My Slip and Fall Accident on His Property?

To hold a property owner responsible for your slip and fall accident injuries, you must prove one of the following:

·         The property owner should have known of the dangerous condition on his property and should have fixed it.

·         The property owner knew of the dangerous condition but did nothing to fix it.

·         The property owner intentionally caused the dangerous condition.

How to Prove a Slip and Fall Accident on Someone Else’s Property

If you have suffered serious injuries in a slip and fall accident on another person’s property, you may make an injury claim against the property owner. However, proving a slip and fall accident on another person’s property is challenging. To win such a case, you must prove that the property owner was negligent and that his negligence resulted in your injuries.

Although a property owner is required to keep his or her property in a reasonably safe condition, this does not mean that whoever slips and fall on his or her property may hold the property owner liable. To hold a property owner responsible, the injured person must prove either one of the following:

·         That the property owner should have known of the dangerous condition on his or her property and should have fixed it

·         That he or she knew of the dangerous condition but did nothing to fix it

·         That he or she intentionally caused the dangerous condition

To prove that a property owner was negligent in keeping the premises safe, an injured person should consider the following:

·         Did the hazardous condition exist long enough for the property owner to take care of it?

·         Did the property owner routinely check for potential hazards on his/ her property?

·         Was the hazard intentionally created? Did the property owner have any justification for creating such a hazard?

·         Could the slip and fall accident been prevented by relocating the hazard or by placing a warning sign in the area?

·         Was the accident caused because of poor lighting or limited visibility?

How to Prove a Slip and Fall Accident on Someone Else’s Property

My father suffered serious injuries when he slipped and fell on someone else’s property. Can we hold the property owner liable for his injuries?      

Proving a slip and fall accident on another person’s property can be challenging. To win such a case, you must prove that the property owner is responsible for your injuries. In order to hold a property owner responsible, you must prove one of the following:

·         The property owner should have known of the dangerous condition on his/ her property and should have fixed it.

·         The property owner knew of the dangerous condition but did nothing to fix it.

·         The property owner intentionally caused the dangerous condition.

Truck Accident, What’s Next?

Although there have been improvements in trucking safety over the past decade, truck accident injuries are still deadly, if not life-altering. This is mostly because of the sheer mass of trucks as compared to regular vehicles. If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, it is imperative to contact an experienced attorney. An attorney will protect your rights and help you receive your rightful compensation. 

Common Types of Truck Accident Injuries

Every day, across the United States, we see lives change dramatically as the result of accidents with semi-trucks or 18-wheelers. Truck accidents are more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities than other motor vehicle accidents. According to the National Institute of Traffic and Highway Safety, about 73 percent of all truck crash deaths and injuries are suffered by people hit by the truck.

A Glimpse of Truck Accident Facts

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,

·         1 percent of all truck crashes are fatal.

·         23 percent of truck accidents result in injury.

·         Truck crash injuries account for eight percent of all fatal crashes and three percent of all automobile injuries in the U.S.

·         63 percent of tractor trailer accidents occur on rural roads.

·         83 percent of truck crashes happen on weekdays.

Types of Truck Accident Injuries

Most of the truck accident injuries can be catastrophic and can take years to recover or cannot fully ever be recovered from. Truck accident victims are likely to experience one or more of the following types of injuries.

·         Back and neck injuries

·         Spinal cord injuries

·         Head injuries

·         Broken bones

·         Internal injuries

·         Lacerations

·         Rib and torso injuries

Back and neck injuries can be anything from minor neck pain, often referred to as whiplash, to dislocated spinal discs. Other life-altering damage can be trauma to the spinal cord. This can cause permanent disability. In fact, even minor injuries to this area can affect the victim’s life and prevent them from returning to their daily routines.

Another most common injury in truck accident is head Injury. This may include concussions, which range from minor to severe, unconsciousness, coma, and serious brain injuries, which may lead to a permanent loss of cognitive functions.

Internal injuries, which include internal bleeding and ruptured organs, usually from blunt trauma, are catastrophic and are difficult to treat. External injuries such as burns and lacerations also have similar causes and may lead to scarring.

Common Types of Truck Accident

My husband is a truck driver. I am always worried for him as truck accidents are a common occurrence. Can truck accident lead to serious injuries? What are the common types of truck accident injuries one should be aware of?

Most of the truck accident injuries can be catastrophic and can take years to recover or cannot fully ever be recovered from. Truck accident victims are likely to experience one or more of the following types of injuries.

·         Back and neck injuries

·         Spinal cord injuries

·         Head injuries

·         Broken bones

·         Internal injuries

·         Lacerations

·         Rib and torso injuries

What are the damages one can get compensated for in an Uber and Lyft accident?

In an Uber and Lyft accident, you can get compensation for:

·         Past and future pain, as well as suffering and physical impairment

·         Past and future hospital, medical and disability expenses

·         Past financial losses, including loss of wages or salary and the value of damaged property

·         Loss of income in the future due to long-term disability

·         Punitive damages to cover negligence

·         Wrongful death, if family of the person who has died files a lawsuit 

Personal Injury Damages for Uber and Lyft Accident Victims

With Uber and Lyft, ridesharing has become a reasonable and popular means of transportation for people. However, with its growing popularity, the percentage of accidents is also on the rise. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation.

Getting compensation for Uber and Lyft accident is different from getting compensation for other motor vehicle accidents. Uber and Lyft drivers may deny claims as they are independent contractors and not employees. Therefore, it is imperative to seek the help of an experienced lawyer to assist you in filing a successful Uber and Lyft accident claim.

In an Uber and Lyft accident, you can get compensation for:

·         Past and future pain, as well as suffering and physical impairment

·         Past and future hospital, medical and disability expenses

·         Past financial losses, including loss of wages or salary and the value of damaged property

·         Loss of income in the future due to long-term disability

·         Punitive damages to cover negligence

·         Wrongful death, if family of the person who has died files a lawsuit

If you or a loved one was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, it is in your best interest to speak to a lawyer at the earliest. Your lawyer will study your case and take the appropriate legal actions against the parties responsible for the accident. They will help you receive the maximum compensation possible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other related personal injury damages.

Personal Injury Damages for Uber and Lyft Accident

My cousin was badly injured in an Uber accident. We want to claim compensation for his injuries. What are the damages he can be compensated for?

In an Uber and Lyft accident, you can get compensation for:

·         Past and future pain, as well as suffering and physical impairment

·         Past and future hospital, medical and disability expenses

·         Past financial losses, including loss of wages or salary and the value of damaged property

·         Loss of income in the future due to long-term disability

·         Punitive damages to cover negligence

·         Wrongful death, if family of the person who has died files a lawsuit 

Why should I hire a lawyer to file a personal injury claim?

Recovering personal injury damages is complicated and time-consuming. It may be hard to handle it on your own. However, an experienced personal injury can help you recover the maximum amount that you need and deserve. Their years of experience and knowledge give them the upper hand in dealing with the insurance companies and the legal process. Moreover, they have all the resources needed to make a successful claim.

Types of Damages in Personal Injury Cases

If you are reading this article, you are probably considering filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit. If you have been seriously injured in an accident that was not your fault, you will be spending thousands of dollars on your medical bills and other losses. You would definitely want to recover these from the party responsible. There are three basic types of personal injury damages that you may be entitled to: general damages, special damages, and punitive damages.

General Damages

General damages are compensatory damages that cover the non-economic aspects of the losses suffered by an injured victim. These may include pain and suffering, loss of promotion or other opportunities, inability to carry out day-to-day tasks, hobbies, future loss of earnings, etc. Since there is no economic value to these losses suffered by the victim, the insurance company and the lawyers use certain formulas to quantify them. Depending on the amount of trauma you suffered in the accident, you may be entitled to general damages.

Special Damages

Special damages are compensatory damages that cover the economic losses suffered by the injured victim in the accident. These include medical expenses, property damage, loss of earnings, and other quantifiable economic harms. The claimant will need to submit bills and other evidence to recover these damages.

Punitive Damages

Unlike general and special damages, punitive damages are not meant to compensate the victim. Rather, they serve as a form of punishment for the person who has caused the accident. They are meant to deter and warn the person responsible against repeating the same mistake. A jury may award punitive damages in a lawsuit if the jurors find that the acts of the defendant that caused the injury complained of were reckless or malicious, represent a high degree of immorality or show deliberate dishonesty.

Recovering personal injury damages is complicated and time-consuming. It may be hard to handle it on your own. However, an experienced personal injury can help you recover the maximum amount that you need and deserve. Their years of experience and knowledge give them the upper hand in dealing with the insurance companies and the legal process. Moreover, they have all the resources needed to make a successful claim. Make sure that you consult with an experienced personal injury attorney - they usually provide a free consultation during your first visit.

Damages You Can Recover in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

I was in a car accident that was not my fault. I the accident. If I file lawsuit against the person responsible, what type of compensations will I receive? 

There are three basic types of personal injury damages that you may be entitled to: general damages, special damages, and punitive damages. General damages are compensatory damages that cover the non-economic aspects of the losses suffered by an injured victim. These may include pain and suffering, loss of promotion or other opportunities, inability to carry out day-to-day tasks, hobbies, future loss of earnings, etc. Special damages are compensatory damages that cover the economic losses suffered by the injured victim in the accident, and may include medical expenses, property damage, loss of earnings, and other quantifiable economic harms. Punitive damages, however, are not meant to compensate the victim. Rather, they serve as a form of punishment for the person who has caused the accident. They are meant to deter and warn the person responsible against repeating the same mistake. 

What are some risks that may be associated with Uber car rides?

The following are some risks that may be associated with Uber car rides. Passengers must be aware of these risks.

·         The Uber vehicles are not owned by the company but by the drivers themselves. Therefore, there is significant variability among the design, construction, and safety features of these vehicles.

·         Passengers are uninformed of the driver's history as a motor vehicle operator. Although Uber drivers are subjected to background checks including an analysis of the driver's past conduct while behind the wheel, these checks do not completely reveal the true nature of a motorist.

·         Uber drivers are not typically required to meet the same licensing and inspection requirements as those of traditional taxi and limousine drivers.

·         Although Uber fares are considerably lower than other traditional taxi services, the company reserves the right to implement surge pricing during periods of peak demand.

·         Uber drivers are considered independent contractors. The company denies any liability when things go wrong during rides.

Risks Associated With Uber Car Rides- What Passengers Must Be Aware of

Uber has taken the transportation company by storm. Since, its inception, Uber has made commuting easy for many people around the world. In spite of its growing popularity in many cities around the world, there has been an increase in the number of Uber car accidents. Passengers travelling with Uber frequently, or people thinking of using Uber cars, should consider the risks that may be associated with this ride.

·         The Uber vehicles are not owned by the company but by the drivers themselves. Therefore, there is significant variability among the design, construction, and safety features of these vehicles. Uber does not require drivers to operate particular makes and models of vehicles.

·         Passengers are uninformed of the driver's history as a motor vehicle operator. Although Uber drivers are subjected to background checks, including an analysis of the driver's past conduct behind the wheel, these checks do not completely reveal the true nature of a motorist. The best way to check this is through the driver's official record. Passengers will be at a higher risk of accident if the driver is a chronic speeder, a tailgater, or someone who operates in a reckless manner.

·         Uber drivers are not typically required to meet the same licensing and inspection requirements as those of traditional taxi and limousine drivers.

·         Although Uber fares are considerably lower than other traditional taxi services, the company reserves the right to implement surge pricing during periods of peak demand. Taking a ride at this time can cost you a lot.

·         Traditional taxi drivers must show proof of residency, good health and hygiene, and have a driver’s license. They must also have a clean criminal record, and must complete taxi driving training. However, to drive for Uber there is no such requirement. Anyone who has a car in working order can become an Uber driver.

·         Uber drivers are considered independent contractors. The company denies any liability when things go wrong during rides. Most passengers may not be aware of the fact that, when you download the app, you actually agree to their terms and conditions by default, including the fact that Uber will not take any responsibility—be it an accident, injury, theft, physical attack, rape or death.

Risks Associated With Uber Car Rides

I am planning to use Uber rides for the next 2-3 months. I want to give it a try because it’s much cheaper than hiring a traditional taxi. However, I am worried because Uber has been in the media spotlight for the wrong reasons. What risks may be associated with an Uber ride?

The following are some risks that may be associated with Uber car rides. Passengers must be aware of these risks.

·         The Uber vehicles are not owned by the company but by the drivers themselves. Therefore, there is significant variability among the design, construction, and safety features of these vehicles.

·         Passengers are uninformed of the driver's history as a motor vehicle operator. Although Uber drivers are subjected to background checks, including an analysis of the driver's past conduct behind the wheel, these checks do not completely reveal the true nature of a motorist.

·         Uber drivers are not typically required to meet the same licensing and inspection requirements as those of traditional taxi and limousine drivers.

·         Although Uber fares are considerably lower than other traditional taxi services, the company reserves the right to implement surge pricing during periods of peak demand.

·         Uber drivers are considered independent contractors. The company denies any liability when things go wrong during rides.

When should one file for a personal injury lawsuit?

In cases where a personal injury claim is unfairly rejected or unduly delayed by the insurance company, or when there could have been more financial compensation than what is offered, one can file a lawsuit against the insurance company which is liable to pay for the injuries. Filing a personal injury lawsuit involves taking the case to court. There are certain costs and fees associated with filing a lawsuit. It is wise that you consult with a personal injury lawyer before doing so. If the case cannot reach a fair settlement after filing a lawsuit, it will be scheduled for a trial.

What Is the Difference between a Personal Injury Claim and a Lawsuit?

When a person is injured in an accident that has been caused by someone else’s negligence, the injured party can either make a personal injury claim or file a lawsuit in order to receive financial compensation from the insurance company of the negligent party.

Personal Injury Claim

In most cases, the injured party will submit a personal injury claim with the insurance company which will then decide to accept or reject the claim. In a “no fault” state like New York, the claim is first filed with one’s own insurance company, while in “at fault” states the claim is made towards the negligent party. This process does not involve going to court, but the case is settled through negotiations with the individual or their lawyer and the insurance company.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

In cases where a personal injury claim is unfairly rejected or unduly delayed by the insurance company, or when there could have been more financial compensation than what is offered, one can file a lawsuit against the insurance company which is liable to pay for the injuries. Filing a personal injury lawsuit involves taking the case to court. There are certain costs and fees associated with filing a lawsuit. It is wise that you consult with a personal injury lawyer before doing so. If the case cannot reach a fair settlement after the filing of a lawsuit, it will be scheduled for a trial.

Filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit can be very complicated. Insurance companies often try to pay less than they should towards the injured victims because it is in their best interest to pay as little as possible. If you have been seriously injured in an accident that was not your fault - it could be a car accident, accident at your work place, or a slip and fall accident - it is always prudent to talk to an experienced personal lawyer to ensure that you receive the maximum financial compensation. 

Personal injury Claim and Lawsuit

I have been badly injured in a car accident. What are my options to get compensated for my injuries?

If you have been injured in an accident that has been caused by someone else’s negligence, you can either make a personal injury claim or file a lawsuit in order to receive financial compensation from the insurance company of the negligent party. 

What are the common causes of Uber accidents?

The following are some of the common causes of Uber accidents:

Exhaustion: Because of the lack of proper regulations in place for Uber drivers, most drivers try to work extra to maximize their income. Uber drivers can choose to work 24 hours in a day if they want to. There is no limitation. Lack of sleep and exhaustion may result in serious accidents.

Poor maintenance of vehicles: Lack of proper maintenance can cause vehicles to malfunction and become accident-prone. Failure in the brake system, airbag failure, tire blowouts and steering issues are some examples of poor maintenance.

Reckless driving: Drivers must follow traffic rules and avoid indulging in activities that may hinder their performance while driving. Speeding, running red lights, and not stopping at stop signs are some examples of reckless driving.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can cause drivers to lose the ability to focus and function properly and end up causing serious accidents.  

What Causes Uber Accidents?

With the growing popularity of Uber, accidents involving Uber vehicles are also increasing. Many factors contribute to such accidents, including exhaustion, poor maintenance of vehicles and reckless driving. An understanding of these factors may help drivers to be informed and help prevent accidents. Here are some of the common causes:

Exhaustion: Because of the lack of proper regulations in place, most drivers try to work extra to maximize their income. Uber drivers can choose to work 24 hours in a day if they want to. There is no limitation. Lack of sleep and exhaustion may result in serious accidents.

Poor maintenance of vehicles: Lack of proper maintenance can cause vehicles to malfunction and become accident-prone. Failure in the brake system, airbag failure, tire blowouts and steering issues are some examples of poor maintenance.

Reckless driving: Drivers must follow traffic rules and avoid indulging in activities that may hinder their performance while driving. Speeding, running red lights, and not stopping at stop signs are some examples of reckless driving that result in serious Uber accidents.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can cause drivers to lose the ability to focus and function properly and end up causing accidents.  

What Causes Uber Accidents?

My son lives in a different city and has recently started using Uber to commute. However, I feel that he is not safe using an Uber car because of the high incidence of accidents involving Uber vehicles. What factors contribute to these accidents?

The following are some of the common causes of Uber accidents:

Exhaustion: Because of the lack of proper regulations in place, most drivers try to work extra to maximize their income. Uber drivers can choose to work 24 hours in a day if they want to. There is no limitation. Lack of sleep and exhaustion may result in serious accidents.

Poor maintenance of vehicles: Lack of proper maintenance can cause vehicles to malfunction and be accident-prone. Failure in the brake system, airbag failure, tire blowouts and steering issues are some examples of poor maintenance.

Reckless driving: Drivers must follow traffic rules and avoid indulging in activities that may hinder their performance while driving. Speeding, running red lights, and not stopping at stop signs are some examples of reckless driving.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can cause drivers to lose the ability to focus and function properly and end up causing accidents.  

What can you do to stop texting and driving?

It is important that we do our part to stop distracted driving. If you know that someone is driving, you should do your part by not texting or calling that person. Or if you are a co-passenger with a driver who is texting, you should stop that person from putting other people’s lives at risk.

Texting and Driving Accident Facts

Texting and driving is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. It causes thousands of serious car accidents every year. People think that it is not a big deal to text and drive, and that they can get away without being caught or causing an accident. But such carelessness continues to cause fatal accidents every day. If you cause a fatal accident while texting and driving, you could be charged with murder.

Recent studies have shown that 18% of fatal car accidents are caused by texting while driving. When a driver is texting while driving, he takes his eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds, during which time he also fails to look at the rear-view mirror. This greatly increases the risk of an accident.

Texting and driving takes the hand away from the wheels. This means the driver is driving with only one hand on the wheels. Therefore, when an emergency situation arises, he is not able respond as quickly as a person who is driving with both hands on the wheels can. This can lead to an accident which otherwise could have been easily avoided.

A poll in the United States has revealed that an alarming 40% of teen drivers admitted to having indulged in texting and driving in the past 30 days. It is important that we do our part to stop distracted driving. If you know someone is driving, you can do your part by not texting or calling that person. Or if you are a co-passenger with a driver who is texting , you should stop that person from putting other people’s lives at risk.

If you are a victim of distracted driving, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you get compensated for your injuries. Laws regarding distracted driving have become more stringent, and fines have doubled in New York. Drivers should buckle up and drive safer. Driving requires your full attention and focus on the road. You should make sure that you put your phones down and drive distraction-free.

Texting and Driving

I live in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood where the traffic is only moderate. I don’t see why it is such a big deal not to text while driving. Can you tell me why I should not do it?

Recent studies have shown that 18% of fatal car accidents are caused by texting while driving. When a driver is texting while driving, he takes his eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds, during which time he also fails to look at the rear-view mirror. This greatly increases the risk of an accident. 

How can we prevent pedestrian accidents in New York?

Here are some tips you can follow to avoid pedestrian accidents in New York

·         While walking the streets, wear bright-colored clothing during the day and light colored or reflective clothing at night.

·         Do not walk if you have consumed alcohol, because alcohol impairs a person’s decision making ability and physical reflexes, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.

·         Know the traffic signals, signs and rules in the areas where you are walking. You must also be aware of the vehicle rules to properly anticipate what motorists will do.

·         Do not wear a headphone, talk on the phone or look down at your phone while walking.

·         Consider walking on the sidewalks. If sidewalks are unavailable, walk on the far side of the road.

·         Use crosswalks to cross the street. If there are no crosswalks, go to a well-lit spot and wait for a long gap in traffic to cross.

·         After the light turns red, wait for an extra moment to make sure that all vehicles have stopped.

Tips for New York Pedestrians to Avoid Accidents

Pedestrian accidents happen all too often in New York City, often resulting in serious injuries or death. With the number of pedestrian accidents increasing every day, pedestrians must be constantly aware of their surroundings. Although not all pedestrian accidents can be prevented, a number of safety tips can ensure pedestrians their safety while walking the streets.

Here are some tips you can follow to avoid pedestrian accidents in New York:

·         While walking the streets, wear bright-colored clothing during the day and light-colored or reflective clothing at night.

·         Do not walk if you have consumed alcohol, because alcohol impairs a person’s decision making ability and physical reflexes, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.

·         Know the traffic signals, signs and rules in the areas where you are walking. You must also be aware of the vehicle rules to properly anticipate what motorists will do.

·         Do not wear a headphone, talk on the phone or look down at your phone while walking.

·         Consider walking on the sidewalks. If sidewalks are unavailable, walk on the far side of the road.

·         Use crosswalks to cross the street. If there are no crosswalks, always choose a well-lit spot and wait for a long gap in traffic to cross over.

·         After the light turns red, wait for an extra moment to make sure that all vehicles have stopped.