Pedestrian Accident Wave at Intersection Worries Bergenfield Residents

It is significantly more dangerous for a pedestrian to be involved in a car accident than for someone in a vehicle. Lacking any protection, someone who is struck by vehicle while walking is much more likely to suffer a life-threatening or fatal injury. Unfortunately, there are many locations in New Jersey that are prone to pedestrian accidents. In one Bergen County community, people who live near a danger spot are seeking action to reduce the number of collisions.  

At the intersection of North Prospect and Central avenues in Bergenfield, numerous pedestrians have been struck by cars. Residents of the town are concerned that serious injuries will continue if the dangers associated with the location are not addressed. This location is just one of many danger spots that pose a hazard to walkers in North Jersey. Streets throughout the area present a major risk to pedestrians because of faulty infrastructure and limited traffic control.

Although a pedestrian should always obey traffic signals and remain aware of cars when crossing the street, many victims of collisions are hurt through no fault to of their own. Some of the factors that commonly lead to pedestrian accidents include: 

• Speeding — At the Bergenfield intersection, drivers regularly exceed the speed limit of 25 miles per hour, leaving them less likely to be able to control their vehicle when a pedestrian crosses the street.

• Poor traffic control — Sometimes, municipalities and other government bodies don’t take the steps necessary to make a dangerous location safer. Installing a stop sign or traffic light could significantly improve safety at a hazardous intersection. This is particularly true in areas near schools and on roads where speeding often occurs. Following an accident that caused severe injuries to local resident Kathleen Elson and killed her dog, the town restricted left turns on to North Prospect during some hours. 

• Drivers entering crosswalks — New Jersey drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians when they are in a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. However, some motorists are still unaware of this rule, while others violate it willfully.

If you have been injured in a car accident due to unsafe road conditions, it is imperative that you immediately contact an experienced car accident lawyer who can support you in seeking compensation. There may be limited time to file a claim. The sooner you reach out to an attorney who handles car crash cases, the better chance you have to obtain a prompt, fair financial recovery.    

At Seigel Law, we represent pedestrians injured in car accidents throughout New Jersey. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident or any other type of vehicle collision, we will seek appropriate compensation for your injuries. For a free consultation about your legal options, call us at 201-444-4000 or contact us online. Our office is in Ridgewood.