It is no secret how dangerous traveling by motor vehicle can be; recent data confirms that traveling on foot is risky, too. Between 2010 and 2019, more than 160,000 people died in New York state as a result of pedestrian accidents. Accident statistic analysts are concerned that these numbers may be rising.
These four counties have a high percentage of pedestrian fatalities
Researchers say that some counties appear to have a greater risk of pedestrian accidents than others. Suffolk County, for instance, and some rural areas often experience heavy traffic but do not always have ample sidewalk space to help keep pedestrians safe. Brooklyn, Queens and Nassau counties also have a high number of pedestrian fatalities, ostensibly due to the sheer volume of traffic
The elderly population is especially at risk
The statistics statewide from 2010 and 2019 equate to a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle approximately every 33 minutes. Analysts say that between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. is the most dangerous time of day to travel by foot in New York. People age 70 and beyond are reportedly in the highest risk group for pedestrian accidents.
Driver negligence is often the cause of pedestrian accidents
Driver distraction and failure to yield a right of way are two of the most common causes of New York vehicle collisions involving pedestrians. Many pedestrian accidents result in severe or fatal injuries. In cases where driver negligence is determined to be a causal factor, a recovering victim or an immediate family member of a fatally injured victim may seek restitution by filing a legal claim in a civil court.