It is fairly common knowledge that many pedestrians are injured every year in New York car accidents. It may, however, come as a surprise to a lot of us to hear that bicyclists also injure numerous pedestrians in the city. According to a recent analysis by Hunter College, more than 500 New York City pedestrians require a trip to the hospital every year for injuries suffered in pedestrian accidents involving bicyclists.
The New York Times recently reported that approximately 1,000 total New Yorkers are hospitalized every year after being struck by a bicycle. More than half of those victims are New York City residents. These numbers do not even include individuals who go to a walk-in clinic or to their family physician.
Starting on October 1, 2011, New York City will begin keeping statistics on bicycle versus pedestrian collisions. Perhaps once we have even more accurate statistics we will understand what a serious problem this is in New York. These types of accidents have been underreported because there are so many more pedestrian accidents involving cars. This does not, however, mean that the victims of negligent bicyclists suffer any less or that they have fewer rights. Just as victims of car accidents, there are a number of steps that injured pedestrians would be well advised to take. Remember, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other vehicles in New York. They are, like any other vehicle, required to yield right-of-way to pedestrians. If you have been involved in such a collision, collect as much insurance, identification and contact information as you can from the parties involved. Talk to anyone who may have witnessed the crash and collect their contact information as well. It is also important to seek immediate medical attention to document the extent of the injuries suffered.
At-fault drivers and bicyclists may be held accountable for their negligence. Injured victims of negligent drivers and bike riders may file a personal injury claim to recover losses such as medical bills, loss of wages, past and future pain and suffering, and therapy fees.
The skilled New York personal injury lawyers at The Law Offices of Kenneth A. Wilhelm help their clients get the support they need. We know how to hold at-fault parties accountable for the damages they cause. If you would like to discuss your potential claim at absolutely no cost to you, call our New York offices at 1-800-WORK-4-YOU (1-800-967-5496) today. We can also help with personal injury cases in New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, or Florida. If you have been seriously injured in any of the 50 U.S. states, please call us and we will try to help you with your case.
Other phone numbers for us are:
1-800-RADIO-LAW, 1-888-WYPADEK, OR 1-800-LAS-LEYES
Please visit our website: www.work4youlaw.com
Source: The New York Times