Anecdotal and statistical evidence show just how dangerous distracted driving is in New York and across the country. In 2016 alone, distracted drivers caused almost 3,500 deaths and 391,000 injuries. Research shows how laws designed to discourage drivers from texting and driving have improved safety. This new research considered not only the number of fatalities caused by distracted driving, but also looked at the number of accidents. States that have banned texting and driving have seen a notable decrease in the number of car accidents that occur each year. Regardless, when a car crash happens, people who have been injured or lost a loved one should consider a lawsuit.
Research shows banning texting and driving effective
Elderly pedestrian dies after being hit by a car in Staten Island
When Staten Islanders cross the street in a crosswalk, drivers are required by law to yield to them. Unfortunately, many drivers do not adhere to the law, especially when it comes to pedestrians. Some drivers are distracted, reckless or under the influence. Others are simply not being cautious. Given their vulnerability, pedestrians can suffer serious injuries and fatalities when they are struck by a car. Understanding the necessary steps to pursue compensation in a legal filing is imperative for accident victims.
Dog owners can take steps to prevent bites
A dog bite is nothing to take lightly. Even a minor bite places you at risk of infection if it breaks the skin. A more serious dog attack can leave you with deep wounds, multiple stitches, muscle damage and disfiguring scars. Some dogs have jaws so powerful they can break your bones when they bite. It does not take much for a determined dog to cause a fatal injury.
Despite improvements, smartphones still create auto accident risk
When Staten Islanders and people throughout New York are taught to drive, they are told that the most important aspect of being safe behind the wheel is to watch the road. This is fundamental. However, with the number of people who have smartphones reaching 77 percent in the U.S., it is unavoidable that many drivers will behave as distracted drivers through texting and driving, surfing the web and making calls among other activities. Smartphone manufacturers and carmakers are seeking to mitigate the risk by devising ways to improve safety and let drivers maintain their focus on the road. Even with that, there are still dangers. Knowing how these devices can simultaneously augment safety and be a detriment to safety is important, especially after a crash.
Study says fatal pedestrian accidents are on the rise
With the number of pedestrians on the road in Staten Island and throughout New York, it is no surprise there are pedestrian accidents with injuries and fatalities. These incidents occur often and there are many reasons for them. Researchers assess and analyze statistics to determine the cause and try to find ways to prevent them, saving people from injury and death. Unfortunately, there are ancillary factors in every issue and with pedestrian accidents, a new study from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) says that SUVs are a major cause for the rise in these crashes. People who have been hurt or lost a loved one in a pedestrian crash should be cognizant of the potential cause if they would like to file a lawsuit for compensation.
