Alleged drunk driver causes critical injuries in New York crash

Most people are aware that if they are intoxicated and choose to get behind the wheel of a car, they are endangering themselves and others. Yet reports of drunk driving accidents are still constantly in the news. In a recent New York accident, an alleged drunk driver slammed into another vehicle that was stopped on the shoulder of Interstate 287. The 22-year-old man, who is from a neighboring state, is in custody in lieu of $100,000 bond as he awaits a hearing for charges of drunk driving and vehicular assault.

The accident occurred around 4:30 a.m. in Rye as the man was heading eastbound in his Acura. He reportedly veered out of his lane, smashing into the back-end of the parked Volkswagen. The impact sent the Volkswagen into the guardrail, where it ricocheted and spun onto I-287. The Acura rolled, sliding on its roof.

One of the passengers in the Acura was ejected from the back seat. He was critically injured with a skull fracture and other internal injuries, in addition to losing a section of scalp and one ear. Another passenger in that car lost a thumb and index finger. Two passengers in the Volkswagen were taken to a hospital to be treated for back and neck pain.

In addition to the two criminal charges, the alleged drunk driver may now face the injured parties in civil court should they decide to pursue any claims against him. In New York, an accident survivor may seek compensation for his or her injuries through a personal injury suit. Often, the outcome of the suit depends upon having evidence that the driver acted in a reckless or negligent manner. Any compensation awarded can give the injured some financial assistance with their medical expenses as they focus on recovering and moving on.

Source: The Journal News, 4 Port Chester residents hurt in Interstate 287 collision, Alex Taylor, Nov. 18, 2013