Being attentive to everything around you as you move through the streets is undoubtedly a very profitable attitude. Remaining in a state of absolute awareness can save us from many accidents.
Although we work on maintaining a permanent state of meditation, analyzing things as they are and not as they have been devised, there are moments when we all naturally get lost in our minds.
We are, but we are not at the same time. These are moments when we lose body awareness. This state of limbo can lead to dense consequences that awaken us from sleep.
A bump, an object in front of you, or a vehicle on the sidewalk—all events take you out of the lethargy of the mind and bring you back to reality. However, practicing mindfulness makes us aware of our bodies and surroundings, reducing our chances of engaging in unforeseen or accidental acts.
For that, all pedestrians in big cities must maintain contact with reality while walking on the streets. If we want safer pedestrians, we must promote lucidity, the rule of law, and awareness of the consequences of our actions.
So, can we say that Long Island is a pedestrian-friendly area? Some of the insights and data we gathered about the pedestrian context on Long Island streets helped us conclude the following:
Difficulty for Pedestrians Traveling to Other Cities:
- Due to the geographical separation, traveling from Long Island to cities like Manhattan can be challenging for pedestrians, requiring public transportation, such as trains or buses.
- Long Island's suburban layout generally prioritizes vehicular travel over pedestrian mobility for intercity travel, making it less pedestrian-friendly for longer journeys.
Pedestrian Infrastructure and Respect for Pedestrian Spaces:
- Long Island's urban and suburban areas often feature pedestrian sidewalks, but their quality and continuity vary significantly.
- In some areas, pedestrian spaces are well-maintained and respected, providing safe walking environments.
- However, poorly maintained sidewalks or vehicle encroachments may hinder the pedestrian experience in certain locations.
Street Signage and Wayfinding:
- Many Long Island streets are well-signed and equipped with clear wayfinding, making navigation easier for pedestrians.
- Proper signage helps pedestrians understand crosswalks, traffic rules, and pedestrian crossings.
Incidents Affecting Pedestrians:
- Like many urban areas, Long Island has experienced pedestrian-related accidents. Data indicates that pedestrian accidents are not uncommon in some areas.
- These incidents can result from various factors, including distracted driving, pedestrian negligence, or inadequate infrastructure.
Design for Pedestrians:
- Long Island's urban planning and development history often prioritizes vehicle traffic and suburban sprawl.
- While some neighborhoods focus on pedestrian-friendly design with walkable streets and mixed-use developments, others may lack such features.
Pedestrian Safety Initiatives:
- In recent years, there have been efforts to enhance pedestrian safety through crosswalk improvements, traffic calming measures, and public awareness campaigns.
- Long Island communities have been increasingly aware of the need for safer pedestrian infrastructure and have taken steps to address these concerns.
Types of Pedestrian Accidents
As we can see, several issues surround pedestrian accidents on Long Island. The city seems to favor driving in a vehicle if long distances are involved.
However, we cannot say that all pedestrian accidents are the same. However, most require beginning a pedestrian accident lawsuit. They respond to circumstances that may vary. Some cases are more related to substance abuse, slips, poor lighting conditions, weather events, and hit-and-runs, among others.
Each case shows a universe of possibilities. Identifying each variable will help weave an efficient strategy over time.
It is also possible to determine what type of compensation would be appropriate after analyzing the facts and the stories about what happened. The first step is possibly to establish and file a claim. The statute of limitations must be followed to avoid delays.
To mention a few, the cases we identified on more than one occasion are as follows:
- Crosswalk Collisions: Pedestrian accidents often occur in marked crosswalks, highlighting the importance of drivers yielding to those on foot, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Jaywalking Accidents: Jaywalking, or crossing streets outside designated areas, can lead to accidents, underlining the importance of using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals for pedestrian safety.
- Intersection Crashes: Intersections are common sites for pedestrian accidents, often due to drivers failing to yield or pedestrians not being fully visible. A hit at high speed could cause serious injuries such as a traumatic brain injury or broken bones.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Left-turn accidents may involve a driver turning without noticing a pedestrian in the crosswalk, emphasizing the need for cautious driving near pedestrians.
- Right-Turn Collisions: Pedestrian safety depends on drivers yielding during right turns, especially when pedestrians are in crosswalks.
- Hit-and-Run Incidents: Hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians are alarming, necessitating immediate medical attention and cooperation with law enforcement for investigations.
- Backing-Up Accidents: Drivers should exercise caution when backing up to avoid pedestrian accidents, particularly in residential areas or parking lots.
- Sidewalk Collisions: Sidewalk accidents can happen due to uneven pavement, emphasizing the importance of sidewalk maintenance and consideration for those walking.
- Bus Stop Accidents: Pedestrians near bus stops should remain alert for oncoming buses and other traffic, while bus drivers must exercise caution when approaching stops.
- Driveway Accidents: Drivers should be vigilant when entering or exiting driveways to prevent pedestrian accidents.
- Distracted Driving Accidents: Distracted driving poses a significant risk to pedestrians, making it essential for drivers to remain focused on the road.
- Speeding-Related Accidents: High vehicle speeds increase the severity of pedestrian accident cases, highlighting the importance of adhering to speed limits in pedestrian-heavy areas.
- Rural Area Accidents: In rural areas, pedestrian accidents can be particularly dangerous due to fewer safety features and longer distances to crossroads.
- Alcohol-Related Incidents: Alcohol impairment can lead to accidents involving intoxicated pedestrians, emphasizing the need for responsible alcohol consumption.
- Elderly Pedestrian Accidents: Older adults may face increased risk in accidents due to decreased mobility and reaction times, emphasizing the importance of senior pedestrian safety measures.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident?
When you see that you are no longer in danger, evaluate if you are in a position to identify what hit you. If it is a motor vehicle, you should immediately call the police, and possibly the other party would contact the insurance company with which you have a contract.
Do not attempt to negotiate settlements that may be detrimental to you over time. A pedestrian accident includes the need to receive legal advice. Listen to the professionals first. We have seen countless cases of this nature and know different scenarios around the same type of case.
So, do not make false moves, such as trying to negotiate for much less than you are entitled to. You should also be alert to any attempt by the insurer to negotiate with you or make you fall into contradictions.
We asked our professionals to draw up a list of steps to follow after being part of an event like this. Some of the ideas we came up with were the following:
- Ensure Safety: Your immediate safety is paramount as a pedestrian in an accident. Quickly move to a safe location away from oncoming traffic to prevent further harm.
- Call for Help: Dial 911 or emergency services without delay. Request both medical assistance and police presence at the accident scene. Reporting the incident to law enforcement is crucial for documentation.
- Exchange Information: Gathering and exchanging information with the driver involved is essential. Obtain their full name, phone number, and insurance details. Likewise, provide your contact information.
- Document the Scene: Use your smartphone or a camera to capture photographs of the accident scene. These photos should include images of any vehicle damage, your visible injuries, the condition of the road, and any relevant traffic signals or signage.
- Seek Medical Attention: If your injuries appear minor, seek immediate medical attention. Some injuries may not exhibit symptoms immediately but could have serious long-term consequences. A prompt medical evaluation helps ensure your health and provides crucial documentation. Don't worry about medical bills. The party that caused the damage could cover that in the future. Medical care could play an important role here.
- Report to Authorities: Cooperate fully with law enforcement officers investigating the accident. Provide accurate and complete information when filing a police report. A detailed report can help determine liability and establish a record of the incident.
- Preserve Evidence: Was it a car accident? If so, preserve any physical evidence connected to the accident. This may include your clothing, damaged personal items, the vehicle, and medical records. Such evidence may prove essential in supporting your case.
- Notify Your Insurance: Contact your insurance company promptly to initiate the claims process. Understand your insurance coverage and responsibilities under your policy. Your insurer will guide you on the necessary steps to take.
- Consult an Attorney: Consider consulting with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney. An attorney can offer invaluable guidance, explain your legal rights, and explore options for seeking compensation.
- Record Witness Information: If there were witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information. Witness statements can provide essential corroboration for your account of events.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere diligently to all medical instructions healthcare professionals provide to avoid unnecessary pain and suffering. Attend scheduled follow-up appointments and maintain thorough records of medical expenses and treatments. This documentation strengthens your case.
- Keep a Journal: Keep a personal journal documenting your injuries, pain levels, and how the accident has impacted your daily life. This journal may serve as crucial evidence to illustrate the extent of your damages.
- Beware of Insurance Adjusters: Be cautious when communicating with insurance adjusters. It's advisable to avoid making recorded statements without legal counsel. Insurance adjusters may seek to minimize your claim, so consulting an attorney before engaging in discussions can be advantageous.
- Preserve Social Media: Exercise discretion regarding your use of social media platforms. Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries, as such posts could be used against you during the claims process.
- Legal Consultation: Consult a qualified pedestrian accident lawyer to understand your legal rights and options comprehensively. An attorney can assist you in navigating negotiations with insurance companies and pursuing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How Can Long Island Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Assist?
The role of an expert from our law firm will be to guide you through each step. You will receive the legal advice your case requires. You will be far from improvised advice that could even make things worse and keep you away from what you deserve by law.
In addition, we will conduct an investigation that will be able to determine the causes of what happened to you to find evidentiary elements in your favor to draw an object of compensation.
As we illustrated above, there are many aspects to consider, including traffic laws, lost wages, and even technical issues. However, with good investigation work, we can obtain favorable conclusions for your interests and thus undertake a legal battle that will grant you justice.
Stay away from improvisation. You must be sure you cannot flounder in this type of move. You must find the space to heal what happened and move forward with a repair. Negligent drivers must be punished!
Contact a Long Island Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Don't let yourself be overwhelmed by the negatives of the situation, and look on the bright side of enjoying a break—a moment to reflect on what happened and practice absolute awareness of everything that happens to you.
See beyond the giants that the mind invents and meet reality face to face. There, on the facts, is where we will work together for a Long Island City under the rule of law.
Contact the Long Island pedestrian accident attorneys at the Ward Law Group right for a free case evaluation!