An SUV-involved pedestrian accident is likely to prove fatal

In New York and elsewhere, SUV-involved pedestrian accidents seem to occur all too frequently. When they do, the victims most often suffer critical or fatal injuries. Anyone who has been injured or lost a loved one in an SUV-involved pedestrian accident may be entitled to seek compensation for their resulting losses.

Why is it that victims of auto-pedestrian collisions that involve SUVs experience such extreme injuries or death? According to research out of Michigan State University, it has to do with where the vehicle strikes the victims. When an auto-pedestrian accident involves a smaller passenger car, the initial impact to the victim will be at his or her legs. When an SUV strikes a pedestrian, he or she will first be hit in the upper portion of his or her body. In other words, injury to the major organs is more likely when an individual is hit by a sport utility vehicle.

Why are SUVs involved in more auto-pedestrian accidents? The simple truth is that there are more of these vehicles on the road now more than ever. Their design makes it easier for them to jump curbs. Visibility issues may also come into play. Regardless of why SUV-related auto-pedestrian accidents occur, such incidents that result in fatality have increased 46 percent since 2009, so this is certainly an issue that needs to be addressed.

Many New Yorkers put their lives on the line every single day simply by walking around town. Anyone who has suffered injury or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident may have legal recourse. Legal counsel can review one’s case and help pursue any actions deemed appropriate in the effort to seek damages.