Pandemic Has Caused an Increase in Motor Vehicle Accidents
The pandemic has been an ongoing issue that has changed daily life for people in New York City and throughout the United States. Stay at home orders, remote school and work, and financial struggles have led to an increase in aggression that is increasingly evident in several aspects of life. One of the most disturbing displays of this aggression is in the drastic increase of injury-causing and fatal motor vehicle accidents that have occurred since the pandemic began.
Many of these accidents leave victims with lingering and debilitating issues that threaten their quality of life. We will examine the factors involved in these motor vehicle accidents, including the role of COVID-19. We will also reveal what you should do if you or someone you love is injured in an automobile accident in NYC.
Effects of COVID-19 On Society
Coronavirus 2019 caused the majority of the nation to mandate stay at home orders, requiring families to stay indoors, work remotely, and attend school via digital means. These significant disruptions to daily life, including increased isolation, loneliness, and other personal issues have taken a devastating toll on society as we once knew it.
These unplanned and continuously evolving circumstances have resulted in a society of individuals who are fueled by an increase in aggressive behaviors.
Since the pandemic began, there has been a rise in violent crime, including theft, assault, burglary, and more. There has also been a significant increase in road rage and other traffic violations, including speeding, reckless driving, ignoring traffic signals, etc.
Aggression On Roadways
Angry, careless, and/or reckless driving has been a major cause of the increased number of automobile accidents, resulting in severe injuries and wrongful deaths. These devastating accidents have affected drivers, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists and their families throughout NYC.
The increase in injury causing motor vehicle accidents is also a result in the rise of pre-pandemic issues. Dangerous driving decisions, including distracted driving and driving under the influence, have increased significantly in recent years.
The New York Times reports that there has been a 17.5% increase in fatal motor vehicle accidents since the pandemic began. This disturbing statistic is the largest increase in automobile deaths that the nation has experienced since shortly after World War II.
Collision Injuries
New York City residents have been especially affected by the significant increase in road aggression, distracted driving, and other reckless behaviors. Drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians are all at a high-risk of accidents and injury resulting from dangerous roadways.
Common Collision Accidents Include:
- Broken Bones
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Back Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Head Trauma
- Brain Damage
- Whiplash
- Death
Minority groups have suffered the highest number of serious motor vehicle accidents caused by this increase in aggressive driving. Many low-income neighborhoods lack sidewalks and crosswalks that are necessary to protect residents from reckless drivers.
There have also been more individuals that are part of minority groups affected because many are essential workers. These workers could not perform their jobs remotely and did not get to stay home during the pandemic.
Goidel and Siegal
Contact Goidel and Siegel today if you have been injured as a result of an angry or careless driver. You deserve to be compensated for your injuries and may be due reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. There may be several parties responsible for your injuries. The only way to determine liability is to speak with a legal professional about the unique circumstances of your case.
The team of personal injury lawyers at Goidel and Siegel are experienced and specialize in recovering compensation for victims of motor vehicle accidents. Goidel and Siegel have been serving clients throughout New York City for over 30 years, fighting the insurance company, and even going to trial if necessary.
Let Goidel and Siegel fight for you while you rest and recover.
3 Most Common Motorcycle Injuries
Riding a motorcycle is a very challenging activity that takes practice, patience on the road, full attention, and often can result in injuries. There are many injuries that result from a motorcycle accident that are hard to avoid, but there are a few injuries that a motorcyclist can avoid.
Head and Neck Injuries:
The most common injury from motorcycle accidents is a head injury. This can include a concussion and even brain damage. Any sort of contact to the head should be closely monitored. Neck injuries are also common in motorcycle accidents. To protect yourself from these injuries, a helmet must be worn at all times. Helmets should be a cyclist’s best friend.
Biker’s Arm
Another common motorcycle injury is “Bikers Arm.” Bikers are is a condition that occurs after the initial impact of the accident. For example, if a biker is thrown off his bike in an accident, the biker will be tempted to hold his/her arms around themselves to protect them. Sturdy jackets and elbow pads may be worn to protect against Biker’s Arm.
Leg Injuries
Another common injury from motorcycle accidents involves injuries to the leg. This can also lead to injuries to the knees and feet. These injuries will most likely not be fatal but, one will be forced to live with challenging outcomes. Leg injuries often include shattered or fractured bones or knees. Long pants, motorcycle boots, and safe driving are all methods of ensuring protection against leg injuries.
Motorcyclists put themselves at a risk every time they mount their bikes. Be sure to wear your safety gear every time you ride, and treat any injuries you endure. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, the personal injury lawyers at Goidel & Siegel, LLP, may be able to represent you and help you receive financial compensation.
