On behalf of Smiley & Smiley, LLP posted in Car Accidents on Thursday, July 7, 2016.
On the evening of July 4, New York police were called to the scene of a tragic accident in Middle Island. A total of four people are said to have been killed in a two-vehicle car wreck, including the driver believed responsible. Only two individuals -- a mother and her infant -- survived. When the drivers believed responsible for motor vehicle accidents fail to survive, victims or -- in the event of fatality -- their surviving family members may feel they have little hope in achieving compensation for their losses. However, according to the laws of the state, damages may still be recovered through successful litigation.
According to reports, authorities received multiple 911 calls regarding a head-on collision between a sedan and a pickup truck. Witnesses to the event claim that the driver of the pickup -- a 25-year-old male -- was seen driving erratically and speeding just before the crash occurred. This individual is said to have lost control of his vehicle, causing him to cross into oncoming traffic and strike the front end of the victims' car. This young man was thrown from his truck, and he died at the crash site. At this time, police are still working to determine if impairment played a role in this event.
In total, there were five occupants in the impacted sedan. The driver -- a male, believed to be in his 30s -- died shortly after being taken to a medical facility. Two elderly individuals were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. A female passenger and her infant son survived and were transported to hospitals for care. The current conditions of the survivors is unknown.
Motor vehicle accidents such as this one have long lasting consequences for the victims who survive and for the decedents' loved ones. In New York, those negatively impacted by such incidents may have legal recourse. Wrongful death, personal injury and any other appropriate claims may be filed against the estate of the party deemed responsible. If navigated successfully, such claims may result in the awarding of monetary compensation for any and all recoverable losses.
Source: New York Post, "4 killed in Fourth of July crash in Long Island: cops", Shari Logan and David K. Li, July 5, 2016
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