Driver Fleeing Police Involved In Astoria, Queens Bicycle Accident By 31st Avenue and Crescent Street
QUEENS, NEW YORK (November 10, 2024) – A cyclist was seriously injured in an Astoria, Queens collision near the intersection of 31st Avenue and Crescent Street.
New York City officials are saying that the collision took place around 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday. A driver was fleeing police when they were involved in a collision with a cyclist.
Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For New York City Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists lack the protection of enclosed vehicles and are more likely to be overlooked. According to the NHTSA, “The number of bicyclists killed in traffic crashes has been steadily trending upwards since 2010. From 2010 to 2021, bicyclist fatalities ranged from 623 to a high of 966 with a yearly average of 800 (NCSA, 2022; Stewart, 2023).” There are many different factors that could contribute to car accidents.
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Poor road conditions
All drivers must take reasonable steps in order to avoid hitting bicyclists and pedestrians. Pursuant to New York Vehicle Code 1146, all drivers must exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicyclists, and domestic animals in the roadway. If a driver fails to slow down in order to avoid hitting a bicyclist, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any accident.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- An experienced personal injury attorney should be contacted.
Many pedestrian and bicycle collisions involve emergency vehicles. This is why it is so important that police engage in chases only as a measure of last resort. If a police officer showed a wanton disregard for the safety of the public prior to a collision, the department that they work for could be held liable. Any person injured in a collision may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.
Investigating New York City Bicycle Accidents
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our best wishes to the bicyclist injured in this collision. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in an Astoria, Queens collision? You may have legal recourse. Our team of bicycle accident attorneys is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
