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Proposed law strives to reduce auto accidents in New York State

On Behalf of | Mar 10, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Road safety throughout New York is always a concern. This is true for drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians. In recent years, however, there has been a statistical increase in fatalities. Since crashes can not only claim lives but also result in catastrophic injuries that negatively impact people and their families, it is imperative to be aware of the dangers when heading out. Legislators, law enforcement and activists are seeking solutions to the problem and want to prevent as many of these collisions from occurring as possible. Recently, safety groups have been aggressively advocating for legislation to achieve that goal.

Crash Victim Rights and Safety hopes to improve safety through new laws

The concerns are backed up by the numbers. In Western New York alone in 2021, there was a 54% spike in road fatalities when compared to 2019. In the entire state, there were more than 70,000 pedestrian injuries from 2016 to 2020. This shows how extensive the problems are. The Crash Victims Rights and Safety Act strives to enhance safety through speed limit adjustments, changes to the training protocol before drivers are given their licenses, and benefits to municipalities that build safe areas for pedestrians and bicyclists. There are seven overall bills in the package.

As a growing number of people try to reduce automobile usage and ride bicycles or walk, it has become more important to forge strategies to make them safer. Street design is a fundamental part of that. Speeding has been a worsening challenge, especially with fewer people on the roads due to the ongoing national issues. Because there was less traffic, drivers had emptier roadways and took advantage of that by driving at excessing speeds and behaving recklessly. Municipalities setting speed limits lower than what the state currently mandates would be a tailored approach that advocates think will avoid crashes.

With road safety a prominent concern, having advice after an accident is crucial

Until safety initiatives are put in effect and show positive results, people still need to be vigilant when they head out in any capacity. An auto accident can happen without warning. The aftermath can include medical expenses, lost wages, long-term problems and the potential for a fatality. Those who have been hurt or lost a loved one in an accident should know what they are facing and be fully prepared for the future. Assessing the case, gathering evidence and knowing the options is key. Having advice from those who are experienced in these circumstances can be vital when determining how to proceed.