New York City sidewalks are so congested that many pedestrians have taken to walking in the street. In bustling areas in Midtown Manhattan, pedestrians can be found standing in dangerous regions of the road. Pedestrians often walk in crowds and encroach on motor vehicle drivers. Pedestrian congestion and distracted driving have both contributed to a rise in New York City pedestrian fatalities. When a distracted driver hits a pedestrian, the pedestrian is at an increased risk of a severe head injury. Indeed, head injuries are often the cause of death in pedestrian accidents.
Pedestrian Fatalities Have Increased in New York City
The New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee reports that 300 pedestrians die annually in motor vehicle accidents. The New York Police Department’s statistics show that as of April 2019, New York City pedestrian fatalities were up by 38.5%. 50 pedestrians died between January 1 and April 7. Over 56,000 pedestrian collisions occurred across New York City in three months.
A significant amount of pedestrian accidents lead to injuries in New York City. Over 10,000 of those collisions caused the pedestrian, motorist, or cyclist injuries. As of August 2019, the NYPD faces an unsettling 24% rise in pedestrian fatalities in 2019.
Head Injuries are a Common Cause of Pedestrian Deaths
In late August 2019, two pedestrians died as a result of head injuries incurred in two separate New York City motor vehicle collisions. In both cases, the motorists fled the scene of the accident but called the authorities after they left. A dump truck struck the first victim as he was crossing the Cross Bronx Expressway on foot. The victim died at the scene. A second pedestrian dies from a massive head injury after a car hit her near the RFK Triborough Bridge entrance.
Head injuries are common when cars or trucks hit pedestrians. Typically, when a vehicle initially impacts a pedestrian, the bumper collides with the individual’s lower legs. As the vehicle moves forward, the pedestrian turns his head to look at the car. As the vehicle moves forward, his or her head crashes into the windshield. Motor vehicle drivers have the protection of the steel frame of a car, seatbelts, and airbags. Pedestrians have no such protection. When a pedestrian’s head forcefully collides with a windshield or onto the hard asphalt, he or she will almost certainly suffer a head injury.
Head Injuries can Lead to a Life of Medical Complications
Many pedestrians who suffer severe head injuries die at the scene of the accident. Sometimes, emergency assistance arrives too late to relieve the bleeding or swelling that happens after a severe brain injury. Head injuries can also lead to a traumatic brain injury. Those who suffer from a head injury can experience lasting complications, such as:
- Irritability
- Loss of consciousness
- Slurred speech
- Coma or other consciousness disorders
- Loss of cognitive ability
- Persistent headache
- Loss of mobility
If You Have Suffered from a Head Injury Due to an Accident, We can Help
Did a negligent driver run into you and cause your head injury? Are you a family member of a loved one who died after being struck by a car while walking? If so, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact the New York City serious personal injury attorneys at Pulvers Thompson today to schedule your free initial consultation.
