New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently signed a law requiring large trucks registered in New York City to have convex mirrors on the front of the vehicle. Cuomo believes the convex mirrors will help truck operators see pedestrians or other objects directly in front of them in order to provide improved safety for pedestrians.
The new law is meant to eliminate blind spots for larger vehicles. Trucks with a maximum weight of 26,000 pounds will be required to add the crossover mirrors. The law has been discussed several times in the past, but finally got the boost it needed after the unfortunate death of a 4-year-old boy who was struck while riding his tricycle last May in Brooklyn.
Debate Over Whether Convex Mirrors Save Lives
Not everyone, however, believes installing convex mirrors will save lives. Skeptics says that convex mirrors lose their effectiveness when the vehicle is in motion, and since most deadly accidents occur while trucks are moving, having the new mirrors will not help. Some are calling for large, convex mirrors to be installed on telephone poles throughout Manhattan instead of on trucks. Pole mirrors would also allow trucks to see around corners for pedestrians approaching crosswalks, while convex mirrors on vehicles do not.
Others complain that the cost to companies with large fleets might be astronomical. Businesses will have to attach crossover mirrors to any truck that has the potential to be in New York City, when in actuality they may never enter Manhattan. Each mirror costs roughly $120 to mount, so installing them on a large fleet of trucks will be extremely expensive.
Most, however, believe this law is long overdue and commend the governor for putting the safety of New Yorkers before the cost to companies.
If you or another pedestrian you know has been struck by a truck, contact an experienced attorney to find out if there is legal action you can take to get back on your feet.
![[picture of] Daniel A. Kalish](/design/images/attorneyPic.jpg)
