Preventing Pedestrian Accidents in New York City

A Tragic Accident in Fort Green

On October 26, 2023, a heartbreaking incident occurred in Fort Green, Brooklyn, when a 7-year-old boy lost his life in a collision with an NYPD tow truck. According to witnesses, the boy was riding his scooter with his mother when the tow truck made a right turn and hit him. Despite emergency services’ best efforts, the boy died from his injuries. This tragedy highlights the need for more awareness to prevent these accidents from happening.

Facts About Pedestrian Accidents in New York City

PIX 11 reports that New York City has the highest pedestrian fatality rate of any US city. Between 2011 and 2020, 1,260 pedestrian deaths occurred in New York City, followed by Los Angeles with 1,133 deaths, Phoenix with 717 deaths, Houston with 647 deaths, and Dallas with 501 deaths. These statistics indicate that reducing pedestrian accidents must become a priority.

Legal Obligations of Drivers In New York

Drivers are legally required to exercise due care and avoid colliding with pedestrians, bicyclists, or domestic animals in the roadway. If a driver fails to slow down in order to avoid hitting a pedestrian, the victim, or their family, may have a legal basis for a negligence claim against the responsible party, depending on the facts of the case.

Employers Liability In Pedestrian Accidents

The majority of pedestrian accidents are preventable and often a result of driver error. Tow truck drivers’ employers may be held liable for a collision if their employee caused an accident during work hours while adhering to their job duties, whether they work for a private corporation or a municipal entity. Evidence must be preserved properly after any collision to determine liability in court.

Wrongful Death Claims in Pedestrian Accidents

If a pedestrian dies in an accident, their family may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Contacting a pedestrian accident attorney will ensure that all the evidence is examined carefully to determine what legal options they may have. These legal experts can help both accident victims and their families to navigate the legal system and seek just compensation.

Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. Can Help

The legal team at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., is dedicated to helping accident victims and their families receive the justice they deserve. We offer free, independent investigations into pedestrian accidents and are committed to making New York City safer for all pedestrians. Contact us today at (516) 908-9792 for more information about how we can support you.

Conclusion

The Fort Green tragedy is a reminder of the need for greater vigilance and awareness to prevent pedestrian accidents in New York City. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family of the boy killed in this collision and call on city officials to take immediate steps to make our streets and intersections safer for all.

Originally Post From https://www.lawyertime.com/7-old-boy-killed-in-fort-green-nypd-tow-truck-accident/