New York police say impaired driver caused fatal accident

Many New York residents may share the concern of the authorities about the number of deaths on our roads that result from accidents caused by intoxicated teenage drivers. What often starts as an evening of fun could have an adverse effect on the remainder of a young person’s life if they choose to drive after consuming alcohol and/or drugs. Moreover, the lives of a family who loses a loved one in a fatal accident will also be changed forever.

Police reported an accident that occurred on a recent Tuesday night. It was alleged that a vehicle operated by a 17-year-old teenager crashed into the car of a 55-year-old man on a local roadway in New Hyde Park. The older driver was killed on impact, and his wife — who was unconscious — was rushed to a hospital. The couple’s daughter, age 6, reportedly suffered fractures to her leg and was also hospitalized.

No mention was made of any injuries suffered by the teenager, and it was reported that he had four passengers who suffered no injuries. The police reported that he appeared to be impaired. He was arrested and, in addition to a vehicular manslaughter charge, he will now be facing charges of driving while under the influence of drugs. As part of the investigation, both cars will undergo safety inspections to determine the condition of the brakes.

This New York family must now deal with funeral costs, medical expenses and the continued care of the seriously injured mother and daughter. They have the legal right to pursue recovery of financial damages by filing wrongful death and personal injury claims in a civil court. If they provide appropriate proof that the teenager was negligent in a manner that caused this fatal accident, the court may grant a monetary judgment for the losses that have been sustained.

Source: CBS New York, “Long Island Teenager Charged In Deadly Crash“, , Aug. 20, 2014

Source: CBS New York, “Long Island Teenager Charged In Deadly Crash“, , Aug. 20, 2014