Drunk driving accident in New York injures 1, kills 1

Police in New York are saying a drunk driver was responsible for the fatal crash that recently occurred on Staten Island. This drunk driving accident happened in the early morning hours of Sunday, Feb. 16. A total of three vehicles were involved in the wreck. One person is said to have died, and another suffered unspecified injuries.

According to reports, at approximately 5 a.m., a 47-year-old male was driving the wrong direction on the West Shore Expressway when he struck a minivan and a pickup truck. A passenger in his vehicle suffered critical injuries and was transported to a medical facility where he later died. The driver of the truck refused medical treatment, while the driver of the minivan — a 63-year-old male — required transport for medical care.

Investigators claim the responsible party had a blood-alcohol level of .181% — well over the state’s legal limit. He was promptly arrested and charged with DUI, manslaughter, reckless driving and assault — among various other charges. It is unclear when this individual’s criminal cases will be addressed in court.

As driving while under the influence of alcohol is considered negligent driving, the state of New York allows the victims of a drunk driving accident or — in the event of fatality — their surviving family members to seek compensation for their losses. They may do this by negotiating settlements with insurance providers and, if appropriate, filing claims against the individual believed responsible. Legal counsel can review case details and help one fight for maximum relief.