Pedestrians Hit By Cars in Manhattan- A Growing Epidemic By Michael Joseph on June 28, 2025

The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents in Manhattan

Manhattan’s bustling streets, crowded sidewalks, and heavy traffic create a high-risk environment for pedestrians. From distracted drivers to construction hazards, accidents can happen in an instant. According to recent data, thousands of pedestrians are injured annually in New York City, with Manhattan accounting for a significant portion due to its dense population and urban layout. n 2022, Manhattan recorded approximately 2,300 pedestrian injuries due to motor vehicle collisions, one of the highest figures among NYC boroughs. However, the borough saw 25 traffic fatalities, including pedestrian deaths, which was a notable improvement compared to previous years. Citywide, pedestrian fatalities were near record lows, with NYC reporting 94 deaths across all boroughs, a significant drop attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on reducing traffic in 2020 and continued Vision Zero efforts. Manhattan’s share of pedestrian fatalities was roughly 20, lower than Brooklyn and Queens, where higher-speed roads contributed to deadlier crashes. in 2023, there were 101 pedestrian fatalities througout New York dity from vehicle pedestrian accidents. In Manhattan, pedestrian fatalities were estimated at around 19, a decrease from 2022. 2024 saw a concerning rise in pedestrian fatalities. Through September 2024, citywide pedestrian deaths reached 87, a 28% increase from the 68 recorded in the same period of 2023. Manhattan contributed to this uptick, with an estimated 16% increase in pedestrian injuries compared to 2023, totaling around 2,600 injuries by year-end projections. Fatalities in Manhattan were estimated at around 20–25, with tragic incidents including a July crash in Harlem and a Christmas Day accident in Midtown where a taxi struck six pedestrians, including a child. The rise in fatalities has been attributed to increased vehicle traffic post-pandemic,

Victims of pedestrian accidents often face medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. A skilled Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyer make sure your righs are protected and pursue justice against those responsible to get you monetary compensation for your personal injuries.

Why You Need a Manhattan Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Hiring a Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyer is crucial for several reasons:

Expertise in Local Laws: New York has specific pedestrian protection laws, such as the right-of-way at crosswalks. An attorney familiar with Manhattan’s legal landscape can leverage these laws to build a strong case.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, collecting evidence like police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to establish liability.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A seasoned lawyer negotiates on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, a Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyer will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to maximize your recovery.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Manhattan, taking the following steps can strengthen your case:

Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation immediately. Some injuries, like concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, including traffic signals, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Gather Witness Information: Collect contact details from anyone who witnessed the accident.
Report the Incident: File a police report to create an official record of the event.
Contact a Manhattan Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Reach out to an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and protect your rights.

How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation

A Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyer will evaluate all aspects of your case to determine the compensation you’re entitled to. This may include:

Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost due to time off work or reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, such as a drunk driver, additional damages may be awarded.

An experienced attorney will calculate both current and future losses to ensure your settlement reflects the full impact of the accident.

Choosing the Right Manhattan Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Not all lawyers are created equal. When selecting a Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyer, consider the following:

Experience: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling pedestrian accident cases in Manhattan.
Client Reviews: Check testimonials and reviews to gauge the attorney’s reputation and success rate.
Personalized Attention: Choose a lawyer who prioritizes communication and keeps you informed throughout the process.
No Upfront Fees: Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case.

Our Manhattan pedestrian accident lawyers have recovered tens of Millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts and have decades of experience in represnting pedestrians who suffered personal injuries because they were hit by a car. We know the City.

Manhattan vs. Other Boroughs: Brooklyn and Queens consistently lead in pedestrian fatalities due to their higher-speed roads and larger geographic areas. In 2022 and 2023, Brooklyn reported the highest number of pedestrian injuries (around 3,000 annually), followed closely by Manhattan and Queens. However, Manhattan’s fatality rate remains lower, with approximately 20 pedestrian deaths per year compared to 30–35 in Brooklyn and Queens.
Injury Rates: Manhattan’s high pedestrian volume results in thousands of injuries annually, with 2,300–2,600 injuries reported each year from 2022 to 2024. Midtown Manhattan, particularly areas like Times Square and Broadway, sees frequent low-speed collisions due to heavy foot traffic and turning vehicles.