What Makes NY Roads So Dangerous?

Even amidst the pandemic, ever-improving vehicle safety technology, and stricter road rules, approximately 38,680 individuals were killed in motor vehicle collisions in 2020. And in New York City, there were 10,355 motor vehicle accidents in June 2021 alone, according to data from the NYPD’s Motor Vehicle Collision Report Statistics. Moreover, regardless of the pandemic, 3680 individuals got injured or died in traffic accidents last June, and pedestrians and cyclists make up the bulk of victims injured in motor vehicle accidents:

• Out of 20,620 people, 2,362 motorists were injured, and 10 were killed
• Out of 1,367 passengers, 1,363 were injured, and 4 were killed
• Out of 638 bicyclists, 635 were injured, and 3 were killed
• Out of 598 pedestrians, 592 were injured, and 6 were killed

What are Causing These Dangerous Motor Vehicle Accidents?

According to the NYPD report, the top causes of motor vehicle accidents in NYC include:

• Driver distraction or inattention – 2,850
• Right-of-way violations – 788
• Following too closely – 773
• Improper lane passing or usage – 539
• Unsafe speeds – 450
• Passing too closely – 386
• Disregarding traffic controls and backing unsafely – 345 cases each
• Driver inexperience – 260
• Unsafe lane changes – 244
• Improper turns – 238

What If I Get Injured in a New York Motor Vehicle Accident?

If you get injured in a motor vehicle accident in New York, you should know that the state follows the no-fault auto insurance system. This means that financial compensation will come from your own no-fault insurance or PIP coverage, which is mandatory for all drivers in New York. No-fault insurance covers you even if you were not at fault for the accident. However, it only covers bodily injuries, and if you suffered a severe injury, the full cost of your injury may not be covered if it exceeds the limits of your insurance policy.

Fortunately, if you suffered losses that are greater than the no-fault insurance requirements of the state, you will be able to file a personal injury claim against the driver whose negligent actions caused the accident and the insurance provider of the at-fault driver. But what exactly is considered a serious injury?

The best way to determine whether your injury will be considered as such under the law is if your medical bills are greater than $50,000. Generally speaking, the following could be considered serious injuries:

• Dismemberment
• Bone fractures, usually multiple
• Loss of fetus
• Significant disfigurement
• Significant limitations of the use of a body system or function
• Permanent loss and/or the use of a body organ
• A medically determined impairment or injury that’s temporary but prevents the injured person from performing their daily activities for 90 days or more
• Death

Talk to a New York City Auto Accident Attorney Today

If you were hurt in a motor vehicle accident in New York, the law office of Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman can help. Our experienced New York City car accident lawyer can help you understand your case and legal options for recovering compensation for your losses. Call 212-285-3300 or fill out our online form to set up your free case consultation.