While it doesn't happen every year, New Yorkers tend to understand that from time to time, hurricanes and other types of enormous storms can hit the area because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.  It appears that the city could be in for another one of those experiences this weekend if Hurricane Irene takes a path that moves towards New Jersey and New York.  If so, one of the biggest risks that relates to the storm is actually New York car accidents as people attempt to leave the area in high numbers.

Several safety officials have released recommendations regarding Hurricane Irene and how it should be handled.  The first determination to be made is whether or not you should evacuate, as some areas of New York will be required to do if the storm approaches.  If so, leave yourself plenty of time to move out of the way of the storm, as rushing through heavy traffic is always dangerous.  If you're driving in heavy rain, provide yourself with plenty of following room from the vehicle in front of you, slow down a bit and do not slam on your brakes.  In general, remain calm and drive with that mindset.

New York Car Accident Statistics

While we hope that anyone and everyone who either decides or is ordered to leave the area before the storm hits is able to get to their destinations safely, the unfortunate fact of the matter is that New York car accidents can and will occur, and they will become part of the statistics regarding these crashes on a statewide basis.  Every year, more than 187,000 people are injured in New York car accidents and more than 1,200 people are killed.

New York Personal Injury Lawyers

Clearly, driving a vehicle in a heavy storm is a difficult task to undertake.  However, that reality does not excuse someone from negligence or recklessness.  People who are wrongly harmed as a result of New York car accidents will still be able to file New York personal injury lawsuits against the parties at fault for the crashes.  If they do and their claims are successful, they could lead to damages awards that compensate the plaintiffs for their losses.

If you or someone you love has been harmed in a crash, you need to seek the help of New York personal injury lawyers who have been fighting for the rights of injured clients for 40 years.  Contact Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald today to schedule a free initial consultation.