New York is a busy state, and pedestrians are constantly trying to navigate through crowded streets. It’s important to know your rights as a pedestrian to stay safe and avoid getting injured.
Here are five pedestrian rights that you should know if you live in New York
- The Right of Way
As a pedestrian in New York, you have the right of way when crossing the street. It means that cars must yield to you, and you should never have to worry about being hit by a car while crossing the street. However, it does not mean you can blindly walk into traffic without looking both ways. You must still be careful and use common sense when crossing the street.
- The Right to Cross Safely
You have the right to cross the street safely; if a car hits you while you are crossing, it is their fault. It means that you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the driver if you are injured. Make sure to get the driver’s insurance information so that you can contact their insurance company and start the claims process.
- The Right to be Seen
As a pedestrian, you have the right to be seen by drivers. That means that drivers should not be texting or otherwise distracted while driving. If a driver hits you and it is determined that they were distracted at the time, they may be liable for your injuries.
- The Right to Walk on the Sidewalk
In New York, pedestrians have the right to walk on the sidewalk. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if a sidewalk is obstructed by construction equipment or debris, pedestrians may be required to walk in the street. Additionally, some sidewalks may be designated as “pedestrian only” zones, so cars are not allowed to park or drive on them.
In these cases, pedestrians always have the right of way. If you are ever unsure about where you are allowed to walk, look for signs or ask a police officer for guidance. By familiarizing yourself with the pedestrian laws in New York, you can help keep yourself and others safe while walking around the city.
- The Right to File a Complaint
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, there are certain rights you should be aware of. One of these is the right to file a complaint. Whether you were hit by a car while crossing the street or injured in some other way, you have the right to get legal advice from a pedestrian accident lawyer. Contact a qualified New York pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your case and find out what options are available. Pedestrian safety is important, and knowing your rights can help keep yourself and others safe while walking around New York.
Conclusion
Pedestrians must know their rights and responsibilities when walking around the city. If you are ever in a situation where you feel your safety was compromised as a pedestrian, remember to speak up and know that you have resources available. And finally, always be alert when crossing streets – even if you have the right-of-way.
