Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

While taking a stroll through the City streets or pedaling around the Big Apple on a bicycle can be enjoying and healthy too, accidents can and do happen. But they can be avoided.

Every week, numerous pedestrians and bikers are hurt on the streets of Manhattan. Many of these injured people are struck by motor vehicles as they are crossing the street, riding a traditional bike or newer model e-bike, preparing to hop onto a bus or get into a car, or simply standing on the street corner. Sometimes distracted driving or drunk driving is to blame, but not always.

Some injuries can be avoided, even if drivers are acting negligently. Here are some practical steps you can take to avoid accidents and keep yourself safe on the city and suburban streets.

Some Helpful Tips for Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Below are some things that the Law Office of Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. PC suggests to ensure safety:

• Be visible: Be aware of your clothing if it’s dark outside. Make eye contact with drivers, not just their vehicles; don’t assume they can see you. Don’t dart out from between cars or obstacles without looking. Don’t dart into the street abruptly.
• Keep your eyes open: Look both ways before you cross a street – it’s not just for kids. Watch for headlights. Don’t assume cars and trucks will stop for you, even if they’re supposed to.
• Use your ears: Listen for oncoming traffic, including vehicular sounds from engines and brakes. Be familiar with the sounds and sights of the most dangerous times of the day, week and year – problems can happen at rush hour, after special events and on holidays and weekend evenings when people have been drinking.
• Follow the rules, signs, and signals: Be careful about jaywalking, stoplights and “Don’t Walk” signs. Don’t enter an intersection unless you’re sure it’s safe
• Practice bike safety: Obey the rules of the road on your bike. Signal your turns clearly. Keep your hands on the handlebars. Wear a helmet and use LED lighting and reflective gear at night. Never use your phone while pedaling!

Pedestrians and bicyclists shouldn’t have to be hyperaware to avoid being hit on the street, yet accidents are all too common. Many of these suggestions may seem surprisingly simple, but they will only keep you safe if you actually follow them all the time.

Michael J. Redenburg has maintained his law office in Downtown NYC for more than a decade. He is very well-versed in the laws surrounding lower-Manhattan bike accidents and further familiar with the courts in the area. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in lower-Manhattan, call now at 212-240-9465.