Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to the impact of traffic accidents, and they often sustain very serious injuries. Motorists who fail to pay adequate attention to pedestrians – especially at intersections and crosswalks – increase the involved risk significantly. If you’re on foot when a driver’s negligence leaves you injured, don’t wait to consult with an experienced Rochester pedestrian accident attorney.
New York’s Pedestrian Laws
It’s important to know, understand, and follow all of New York’s pedestrian laws – for motorists and pedestrians alike. Consider the following:
- Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks – whether they are marked or not.
- When a crosswalk has a pedestrian signal, a steady green indicator affords them the right of way.
- A light that reads don’t walk or that shows an upraised hand means don’t cross. If the light begins flashing while you’re crossing, however, you should continue briskly to the other side.
- Unless otherwise noted, crosswalks exist at all intersections – even if they aren’t specifically marked.
- When there is a traffic light but no pedestrian signal at a crosswalk, pedestrians must wait until crossing traffic has a red light to proceed, but if the crosswalk has no traffic signals, pedestrians have the right of way.
- Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks whenever they’re available.
Driver Negligence
Too often, pedestrians are harmed by driver negligence even when they, themselves, are crossing the street in strict accordance with the law. Driver negligence in all the following forms is often the culprit:
- Distraction – When motorists are distracted by their phones or by anything else, they are far less likely to spot and safely accommodate pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Excess Speed – Motorists who drive too fast don’t allow themselves enough reaction time to slow down for crossing pedestrians.
- Impairment– Impaired drivers increase the risks that pedestrians and everyone else on the road face.
- Exhaustion – Drowsy drivers have slower reaction times and often have trouble concentrating, which doesn’t bode well for pedestrians.
- Aggression – Aggressive drivers take over the road, and pedestrians in their midst often stand little chance against them.
FAQs
Can a pedestrian attorney help?
Yes, having a pedestrian attorney in your corner can significantly improve your ability to fully recover for your losses.
Which losses are covered?
If a negligent driver leaves you injured in a pedestrian accident, you can seek compensation for losses in all the following categories:
- Your medical costs
- Your lost income
- Your physical and emotional pain and suffering
What can I do if I can’t afford an attorney?
Most reputable pedestrian accident attorneys don’t get paid – a predetermined percentage of the settlement or court award – until after the claim is successfully resolved.
An Experienced Rochester Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help
The dedicated Rochester pedestrian accident attorneys at Steve Foley Law Firm are well acquainted with the complex legal intricacies of pedestrian accidents and have an impressive reputation for resolving them favorably – in support of our clients’ fullest recoveries. We’re here for you, too, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 716-249-2222 for more information today.