NYPD Investigating Deadly Pedestrian Accident on the Upper West Side on Amsterdam Avenue near 109th Street
UPPER WEST SIDE, NEW YORK (May 16, 2026) – Two people have died and three people were critically injured after a driver lost control of their vehicle on Amsterdam Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
New York City officials are saying that the accidents took place around 6 PM on Friday. A driver reportedly lost control of their vehicle before going onto a sidewalk and hitting multiple people.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help all of the victims. Sadly, two people died due to the severity of their injuries.
Three other people were transported to the hospital in critical condition. Police do not believe that the accident was any type of intentional act.
A full investigation remains ongoing.
Liability for Upper West Side Pedestrian Accidents
Speeding remains one of the leading causes of preventable car accidents. According to the National Safety Council, “Speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, killing 11,775, or an average of over 32 people on a typical day. The total number of fatal motor-vehicle crashes attributable to speeding was 10,541.” Victims of pedestrian accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries.
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
If a driver fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could serve as evidence of negligence. There is a presumption of negligence on the part of any driver that departs from their lane of traffic and enters a sidewalk before hitting a pedestrian. Any person injured in a pedestrian accident may be able to seek some measure of accountability through a civil claim. This right extends to the family of any person who died in a collision.
Investigating Upper West Side Pedestrian Accidents
We at GLK Law extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who died. It is our sincere hope that the other victims will be able to make a full recovery. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong.
Do you need more information about an Upper West Side pedestrian accident? Our team of pedestrian accident attorneys is here to help. 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 assistance, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
