Tractor-trailer accidents can be devastating to occupants of motor vehicles because of the size difference between the vehicles. But pedestrians are even more vulnerable. This was the tragic situation on the night of July 31 when a 19-wheel tractor-trailer hit a 16-year-old girl as she was leaving work on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
The accident occurred when the driver of the truck made a turn as the pedestrian crossed the street. The police indicated that the teen had a red pedestrian signal at the time of the accident, and the truck had a green turn arrow.
The driver was not charged in the incident but did receive tickets for failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, failure to use due care and driving an unregistered vehicle.
Pedestrian Laws and Accidents
New York sees heavy pedestrian traffic every day, and as such, has enacted laws to protect pedestrians. The law requires pedestrians adhere to traffic control signals when crossing the street, but motorists are required to use due care to avoid an accident as well.
Whenever someone has been injured or killed in any type of accident, the police will work to determine who was at fault and whether charges may be filed. An attorney also may work with injured victims or their families to establish negligence and liability for the accident.
To learn who may be responsible in a particular pedestrian crash, contact an attorney today at Gacovino, Lake & Associates. Call us today at (800) 246-4878 to set up an appointment to discuss your case and your right to take legal action.
