A New York City woman was killed and a man injured in a fatal crosswalk accident earlier this month. The two were crossing the street in a marked crosswalk together when they were struck by an automobile. Both victims were tossed up over the hood of the car and smashed into the windshield. The woman was killed instantly. The man suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital.
The pedestrian accident happened at around 6 in the morning and investigators are looking into the possible causes of the accident including bright sunlight that can sometimes blind drivers, speeding or simply the driver not paying attention to the roadway at the time of the accident. In the event of any of circumstances, the driver could bear the full financial liability for the victims’ injuries and death.
Indeed, the neighborhood in which the fatal accident occurred has a history, according to residents, of speed law violators racing through narrow city streets “. . . like they’re on the highway.” Far too small a police presence and careless disregard for pedestrian safety can create potentially deadly situations at any crosswalk in the city.
However, under New York City law, automobile operators have a legal responsibility to yield the right of way to people walking on foot-much more so when they’re in a marked crosswalk. Some devastating crosswalk accidents in New York City have resulted in jail time for at fault drivers and substantial settlements and verdicts after trial for injured victims or surviving family members.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a careless or distracted driver while simply walking across the street, you need expert legal help to not only get all the no-fault benefits you’re entitled to by New York State law but also to get all the compensation you deserve. Contact an expert crosswalk accident lawyer in New York City today. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-938-7334 or 212-385-1122 to schedule your free consultation.