Senior Pedestrian Struck by Negligent Driver in Manhattan

Elderly pedestrians are especially vulnerable to vehicular collisions. Even a slight impact can cause a senior to fall to the asphalt – potentially causing fractures, head injuries, and other consequences. These injuries often lead to long-term disabilities – perhaps robbing a senior citizen of their mobility and leaving them bedridden for the rest of their days. The most serious pedestrian impacts leave seniors with fatal injuries. A recent pedestrian accident in Manhattan highlights just how common – and dangerous – these incidents can be.

86-Year-Old Struck by Negligent Motorist in Upper East Side 

On April 2nd of 2024, it was reported that an 86-year-old pedestrian had been struck by a motorist on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The victim was walking across a crosswalk in Yorkville, and he apparently had the right of way when a vehicle attempted to turn left into his path. The motorist in question clearly failed to yield, striking the senior citizen and causing him to fall to the ground.

Thankfully, the senior only suffered what authorities described as “minor injuries.” He was nonetheless transported to a nearby hospital and treated for his wounds. It is not clear what kind of consequences the motorist will face – although reports indicated that police issued him a summons after the incident. At the very least, the motorist stayed at the scene and cooperated with police – and this may allow the victim and their family to seek compensation via an injury claim.

Patch indicates that there have been over 21 crashes at this particular intersection within the space of about five years. Of these collisions, about half caused pedestrian injuries. Based on this data, one has to wonder whether there is something inherently dangerous about the intersection. Could the Department of Transport make improvements to protect the safety of pedestrians? This is certainly something worth considering.

Why Are Pedestrian Accidents So Dangerous for Senior Citizens? 

Seniors are especially vulnerable to pedestrian collisions in New York. First, they are usually slow-moving – and they may not have time to navigate crosswalks before the lights change. Secondly, they may be small or hunched over – potentially falling within blind spots of larger vehicles. Finally, seniors are more vulnerable to fall-related injuries due to their brittle bones. Hip fractures are especially dangerous for seniors.

Key Takeaways 

• Slips, trips, and falls represent a leading cause of death for American seniors
• Seniors often suffer hip fractures after falling on Manhattan streets
• A pedestrian accident lawsuit in Manhattan can help you cover medical expenses

Find a Qualified Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Manhattan 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced New York pedestrian accident lawyer, look no further than Cohan Law, PLLC. Remember, you can sue on your senior family member’s behalf if they have been struck by a negligent motorist. An injury claim can help you pursue much-needed compensation for medical expenses, missed income, and other damages. Reach out today to get started with an effective action plan.

Sources: 

patch.com/new-york/upper-east-side-nyc/man-86-struck-car-upper-east-side-street-nypd

ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-falls-prevention#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20U.S.%20Centers,age%2065%2B%20falls%20each%20year.&text=1-,Falls%20are%20the%20leading%20cause%20of,nonfatal%20injuries%20among%20older%20adults.