Elmont Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrians face a number of serious hazards. Whether they are crossing at a crosswalk, walking on the shoulder of a road, passing a parking garage entrance/exit that cuts over a sidewalk, or are simply walking from their car in the parking lot to their office, being hit by a distracted or aggressive driver is always a possibility, even if they—the pedestrian—takes every precaution. If you were injured as a pedestrian in an Elmont traffic collision, you deserve to be compensated by the party that hit you. Here at the Elmont law offices of Giuffre Law Offices, P.C., our experienced Elmont pedestrian accident lawyers can help you receive the compensation you need and deserve.
Pedestrian Collisions Are Increasing at a Rapid Rate
According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, pedestrian and bicyclist deaths increased by 50.7 percent between 2009 and 2018. During that same time period, overall traffic deaths increased by only 7.9 percent. The reason for the drastic increase in pedestrian deaths (and injuries), compared to the relatively stagnant rate of deaths and injuries sustained by those in motor vehicles, is likely due to the following:
- Better and more advanced safety features for car occupants;
- Crash avoidance systems in new vehicles do not help avoid collisions with pedestrians;
- Drivers are operating their vehicles at ever increasing rates of distraction;
- Aggressive driving (including speeding) is on the rise; and
- Pedestrian infrastructure and protective laws continue to lag behind the resources put forth for auto drivers.
Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Collisions
Even a very low-speed collision, such as being struck by a vehicle that is traveling under 25 miles per hour, usually cause extremely serious injuries for pedestrian victims. If a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle going over 30 miles per hour, the survival rate quickly plummets, and even more serious injuries are likely to occur. Common injuries include the following:
- Fractured pelvis/hip;
- Traumatic brain injury;
- Facial lacerations and fractures;
- Fractured limbs, collarbone, wrists, and ankles;
- Serious lacerations and contusions;
- Whiplash;
- Fractured neck or back;
- Spinal cord injury; and
- Internal organ damage and bleeding.
Pedestrians Have Rights Too
While it may not feel like it, pedestrians do have a right to the streets. New York State pedestrian safety laws state that pedestrians have the right of way when a car is pulling into or out of traffic across a sidewalk. Examples of this include when a driver is entering or exiting from an alleyway, private road, driveway, or building entrance. Pedestrians have right of way in crosswalks as well. In many cases, even if a pedestrian was crossing without a crosswalk and they are struck by a driver, the driver can still be held at least partially liable.
Call Our Experienced Elmont Pedestrian Injury Lawyers Today for Help
As an injured pedestrian, you have rights. You have the ability to hold the careless, reckless, or drunk driver accountable for your damages. These include your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of joy of life, and much more. Call the Elmont pedestrian injury attorneys at Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. today at 516-802-9912 to schedule a free consultation
