Street-Racers in New York City Take Advantage of Empty Highways

New York City is battling the coronavirus pandemic and all of its unexpected consequences, such as street-racers speeding down empty highways.

Since the city issued stay-at-home orders to flatten the curve of the virus’s spread, the roads have been much emptier than usual. For some New Yorkers, this presented the opportunity to use long stretches of highway as a racetrack, according to an article from Patch.

Specifically, residents in Tribeca complain of about 30 cars and motorcycles racing up and down a mile-long stretch of the West Side Highway. Residents near the roadway say they hear loud revving engines at all hours of the day and late into the night.

Impact of Coronavirus on Driving Safety

These street-racers pose a danger to nearby pedestrians and other drivers on the road. Between 2013 and 2016, there were over 44,000 pedestrian accidents in New York City. Because Mayor Bill de Blasio instructed residents to stay home, there are likely more pedestrians out than usual. Since many people can’t go to school or to work, many have turned to daily walks to get fresh air and exercise. With more pedestrians out and about comes a greater risk of accidents occurring, especially when reckless drivers are present.

Reckless, speeding drivers pose a threat to non-racing drivers on these roads, too. The New York Police Department reported 3,922 car accidents in Manhattan in 2018. This number is likely to spike with dangerous drivers on the road. Additionally, there are fewer police officers to respond to complaints about racers because their energy is focused on handling COVID-19. According to Patch, over 7,000 NYPD officers are currently out sick. This is 20% of their police force. The remaining officers must keep themselves available to respond to COVID-19-related calls.

If you are injured in a pedestrian or car accident because of someone else’s reckless driving, you can and should take legal action against them. You should not have to suffer financially because of another person’s negligence. The drivers who are taking advantage of the empty roadways created as a result of COVID-19 are knowingly breaking the law, and could cause a tragic accident.

Contact a New York Accident Attorney

You should never have to face the challenges of a car accident alone. You may need help navigating the costs of car repairs, lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. The legal team at Hach & Rose, LLP is here to help you, even during these difficult times.

Given the coronavirus pandemic, we have taken a proactive approach to protect our clients and employees. We are able to provide the same high-quality service that you have come to expect. We offer online consultations and are here to answer your calls, emails, or messages, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Call (212) 779-0057.

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