Many New York City area residents enjoy walking for exercise or to get to various destinations. Since the pandemic began, more people are taking to the streets just for something to do. But an alarming statistic has recently emerged in which pedestrian deaths skyrocketed in the first half of 2020.
Rate of pedestrians killed continues to rise
The Governors Highway Safety Administration recently released a report detailing that the rate at which drivers struck and killed walkers jumped a significant amount in 2020. While the overall number of pedestrian deaths remained the same, the rate of pedestrians killed in motor vehicle crashes per mile driven rose 20%. Although driving has decreased during the pandemic, dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted and impaired driving has increased. In addition, seven states, including New York, accounted for 54% of all pedestrian deaths.
Personal injury attorney
If a person has been affected by a pedestrian death in New York they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can review the circumstances surrounding the accident and get answers as to what happened. They can visit the accident scene, interview witnesses and review the police report. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and other damages.
No one expects their loved one will be the victim of a pedestrian accident. Unfortunately, there continues to be many dangerous drivers out on our roads. If a family member dies because of an unexpected accident, it can have devastating consequences for everyone. These drivers need to be held accountable for their actions so that they don’t harm anyone else.