Gerald Walpin dies in New York pedestrian accident

Gerald Walpin, a former AmeriCorps inspector general serving under President Obama, has died in New York. He was reportedly involved in a pedestrian accident while crossing the street on the Upper East Side. Police are still investigating this incident.

According to a local report, Mr. Walpin — 84 years old — was crossing the road at E. 79th Street, when he was struck by the driver of an SUV who was attempting a left-hand turn. This incident is said to have occurred just before noon on Friday, June 24. A witness to the event claims that the SUV was not traveling at a high rate of speed. Sadly, the victim did suffer a serious head injury as a result of the impact. He was transported to an area hospital where he later died.

The driver of the SUV — a 52-year-old male — did remain on the scene after the incident. As of the latest report, he has not been charged. Authorities have not indicated if any charges may be pending in this case.

Unfortunately, fatality is a common outcome following a pedestrian accident. The human body simply is not meant to withstand such a forceful impact. After a thorough investigation, if the driver believed responsible is found to have been negligent in his actions leading to this event, Mr. Walpin’s surviving family members may have legal recourse. A wrongful death claim may be filed in a New York civil court in an effort for family members to seek recovery of any damages sustained as a result of the victim’s untimely and unexpected death. Monetary relief may be awarded if litigation proves successful.

Source: New York Daily News, “Elderly pedestrian struck by car on Upper East Side in critical condition“, Patricja Okuniewska, Graham Rayman and Ryan Sit, June 24, 2016