Factors that Lead to Serious Accidents in NYC Intersections

Known as an “urban jungle,” New York City is a densely populated, bustling city. Its streets are filled with a steady stream of cars, bicycles, and pedestrians, all of which struggle to move around the city. Although all intersections are prone to accidents, those traveling in and around NYC’s intersections are especially at risk of being involved in a serious accident.

Were you injured in an NYC intersection? If so, you might be entitled to financial compensation. To learn more about securing damage in an NYC accident injury case, contact Ajlouny Injury Law. Our NYC personal injury lawyers will review the details of your accident, explain your rights, and determine whether you are entitled to compensation. Call (718) 233-3923 today to schedule a FREE, no-obligation consultation with a top personal injury attorney in NYC.

Leading Causes of NYC Intersection Accidents

The direct causes of intersection accidents can differ for many reasons. However, the majority of these accidents are caused by negligence. Motorists who fail to remain alert or purposely violate traffic laws can injure other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Here are the top causes of intersection crashes in NYC.

•  Running a red light or stop sign - When a motorist fails to stop at a stop sign or red light and enters the path of oncoming traffic or a crosswalk, the result can be tragic. Drivers or pedestrians legally entering the intersection have little to no time to react to a motorist who suddenly is in their path.
•  Failure to signal/Improper signaling - When a driver doesn’t signal or mistakenly leaves their signal when they don’t intend to turn, other drivers misread the driver’s intentions and can collide with the other motorist.
• Speeding - A driver who speeds through an intersection can strike a pedestrian, bicyclist, or other driver who is not anticipating the driver’s high rate of speed.
•  Failure to yield the right of way - Many intersection accidents occur when a car or motorcycle turns in front of those who have the right of way.
• Aggressive driving - Another common intersection accident occurs when one car is stopped for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, and the driver behind that car illegally passes them and enters the intersection when others do not expect it.
• Misjudging another driver’s speed - Drivers sometimes assume other motorists are driving within the speed limit and base their actions on that assumption. If the other driver is actually traveling at a much higher speed, they can collide as they enter the intersection.
•  Malfunctioning or missing traffic signals or signs - Although relatively rare, accidents can be caused when a traffic light is out, missing, or malfunctioning. Since traffic signals control the flow of traffic, when it is not operating correctly, motorists can mistakenly feel they have the right of way.

How to Stay Safe in or Around an NYC Intersection

Since nearly half of all accidents take place in or around intersections, it is important to take steps to remain safe. Below are 5 steps to help keep you and others safe when traveling in an intersection.

• Be aware of your surroundings - Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Also, look for any potential road hazards.
•  Don’t speed through the intersection - Maintain a safe speed as you approach, enter, and exit the intersection.
• Keep your distance - Make sure you have adequate time to react to hazards by leaving a safe distance between you and other vehicles.
• Use your signal - Let other drivers and pedestrians know your intentions to turn so that they can act accordingly.
• Cautiously enter intersections - Use caution when entering an intersection, and don’t assume the other drivers’ intentions.

Call Ajlouny Injury Law to Speak with an NYC Personal Injury Attorney for FREE

NYC intersections can not only be hectic, but they can also be extremely dangerous. If you were involved in a car accident, motorcycle crash, or pedestrian accident in an NYC intersection, you might be entitled to compensation.

Insurance companies are always looking to save money. That is why they try to avoid liability and minimize payouts. That is why you need strong legal representation from an NYC personal injury lawyer. Working with an injury attorney will ensure your rights and best interests are protected. Your New York City personal injury lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company and fight to get you full and fair compensation.To take the first step toward securing damages, reach out to Ajlouny Law Firm. Contact us online or call (718) 233-3913 to schedule a FREE, no-obligation case review with a top personal injury lawyer in NYC.