Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers | February 28, 2025 | Car Accidents
Broadway Week is an annual celebration during which fans descend on New York City from all over the world. Put on in collaboration with The Broadway League and New York City Tourism + Conventions, Broadway Week is nothing if not one of the most beloved events in Manhattan.
Unfortunately, tourists — and even some locals — are at risk of being involved in accidents in and around Times Square during the bonanza, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the area. Here’s how to stay safe during Broadway Week and beyond.
When Getting Out Of A Car, Do The “New York Twist”
Getting out of a car in Times Square can lead to a door inadvertently smashing into a pedestrian or cyclist. To avoid this, the New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) recommends doing the “New York Twist.”
You can perform this safety-oriented maneuver by opening the door with the hand farthest away from it. This will give you time to check for nearby pedestrians and cyclists and avoid an accident.
Slow Down
The good news is that the sheer number of vehicles in Manhattan makes it difficult, if not impossible, to speed from place to place. The bad news is that pedestrians can still be hurt and even killed at low speeds.
NYC DOT reports that pedestrians are twice as likely to be killed when struck at 30 mph speeds than at 25 mph speeds. The posted speed throughout Manhattan is 25 mph, and it’s always better to go a little slower than to risk getting into a fatal accident.
Take Slower Turns
While New York City’s posted speeds are 25 mph, NYDOT recommends that all passenger vehicles make turns at even lower speeds. The recommended speed on a turn is 5 mph, which will help you avoid pedestrians and cyclists crossing at intersections throughout the city.
This is especially important in Times Square, which has a lot of foot traffic due to its status as an international tourist hot spot.
Make Yourself Visible If You’re A Pedestrian
If you opt to walk through Times Square, it’s imperative to make yourself visible. Don’t assume drivers can see you simply because you’re in a group of people or because you’re following traffic lights and signals. Wear bright-colored clothing when traversing the city on foot, especially if you’re walking at night when driver visibility is drastically reduced.
Follow All Traffic Laws
Jaywalking is extremely common in Manhattan, but even the boldest natives know it’s a risky proposition. If you’re walking around, obey all posted traffic signs and signals. Only walk when there’s a green light, walk faster if you’re already in the crosswalk at a flashing red light, and stay where you are at a red light. Most importantly, always walk in the direction of traffic.
It’s equally important to abide by traffic laws if you’re driving. Remember that a right turn on red is prohibited anywhere in Manhattan and the boroughs unless a sign indicates otherwise. Most importantly, buckle your seat belt, no matter where you sit in the vehicle.
Enjoy Broadway Week Safely
If you’re a fan of Broadway musicals, Broadway Week can be one of the most enjoyable times of the year. This is true regardless of whether you’re a native of the city or a tourist visiting for the first time.
However, safety must always come first for a delightful time in Times Square. Following traffic laws and taking basic safety precautions will ensure that your Broadway Week experience is fun, memorable, and accident-free.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in New York City at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers For More Help
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our New York City car accident lawyers at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We also serve in Brooklyn and the Bronx.
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – New York City Office
100 Wall St 24th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(212) 514-5007
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – Bronx Office
1578 Williamsbridge Rd suite 3b
Bronx, NY 10461
(212) 514-5007
(917) 905-2339
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – Brooklyn Office
32 Court St #704
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(212) 514-5007
(917) 920-7332
