New York City is the top tourism destination in the United States. Over 65 million tourists visited the city in 2018, and tourists who visit New York from other countries comprise close to one third of all foreigners who vacation in America. With that many tourists flooding New York City’s already crowded streets, accidents and injuries are bound to happen.
While the city’s crime rate has steadily decreased over the last few decades and New York is now considered a relatively safe destination, visitors to New York City should always be aware of the potential ways they could get injured while on vacation.
Car Accidents
Like any large, densely populated city, New York City experiences a high number of motor vehicle accidents every year. Tourists should be aware of the potential risks involved in either driving a car, taking taxis, or using rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft while on vacation in New York.
Driving a car can be especially hazardous for tourists who are not accustomed to the fast pace of New York City, as they could easily become frazzled, agitated, or distracted while driving. Foreign visitors who are not used to American roads, street signs, and traffic laws should probably opt for an alternative form of transportation when visiting New York City to avoid being involved in an accident.
Additionally, with the crowded streets and sidewalks of New York City, tourists can also become victims of pedestrian and bicycle accidents. On average, 3,027 people are hospitalized each year in New York City as the result of pedestrian injuries from car accidents, and 637 people per year are hospitalized due to bicycle injuries from car accidents. Remaining alert and aware of one’s surroundings at all times is the best way to avoid an accident while on foot or riding a bicycle.
Slips and Falls
Construction scaffolding, manholes, sewer and subway grates, and uneven pavement are all common sights on New York City streets and sidewalks. Combine these obstructions with a herd of busy New Yorkers rushing by, and tourists can easily find themselves shoved, jostled, or even knocked over.
Injuries can also occur while entering subway stations or getting on and off subway cars, since everyone is moving fast to catch their trains. And anyone who has visited New York City in the wintertime can attest that slippery, slushy sidewalks are a recipe for disaster. Again, staying vigilant while moving about the city is the best way a tourist can avoid accidents and injuries.
What to Do if You Get Hurt While on Vacation
Not only would an injury ruin your trip to New York City, but navigating insurance claims and lawsuits in an unfamiliar place can be especially complicated and stressful. Getting injured while on vacation means you’re away from your usual doctor and often out of your medical insurance network, plus you might be unaware of particular laws in New York state that could affect your case. If you are from a foreign country, you might even have a language barrier to deal with.
Luckily, you do not have to be a resident of New York City to file a personal injury lawsuit there, nor do you even have to be an American citizen. Personal injury cases can typically be settled out of court, meaning that you won’t need to return to New York in order to file a claim. If you were hurt in an accident while visiting New York City, Greenstein & Milbauer can handle the claim for you and help you get properly compensated for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages – while you focus on your recovery.
