Driving in New York City and elsewhere in the state come with dangers. The sheer volume of vehicles traveling on public roads increases the chances of collisions. Bronx pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists may find themselves in harm’s way, as well. Lawmakers and government officials take steps to address accident worries, but they can only do so much. Accidents will still happen and could occur at rates far worse than expected.
A frightening first quarter of 2022
The first three months of 2022 did not reflect merely a slight increase over 2021’s accident data. Rather, the first quarter presented a 44% increase in traffic fatalities, which may worry many commuters and pedestrians. The Transportation Alternatives and Families for Safe Streets points out the figures represent the largest increase since the institution of Vision Zero in 2014. Vision Zero is a program designed to decrease traffic fatalities in New York City.
Vision Zero likely contributes to helping improve safety, but 2022 appears to be a hazardous year. The first three months of 2022 saw 59 people killed in traffic accidents.
Negligence on New York City streets
Numerous factors contribute to motor vehicle accident statistics, and such factors are not exclusive to New York City. However, the metropolitan area’s dense population could make collisions more dangerous since pedestrians and large vehicles might become crowded in the same place. Congestion alone may not cause an accident, but expect the chances to increase when someone is negligent.
Intoxicated and distracted drivers may cause terrible collisions. That same might apply to drivers committing moving violations. Anyone whose negligence leads to property damages, injuries or death could face a substantial personal injury lawsuit. However, an insurance settlement could provide the actual compensation to victims.
