A woman was killed and at least nine others were injured in a New York car accident involving a hit-and-run driver. According to a Reuters news report, the fatal car accident happened at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Wortman in East New York.
Officials say a man in his 20s was driving a white Mercedes when he struck the woman and six parked cars before fleeing on foot. The woman was transported in critical condition to a nearby hospital where she died from her injuries. The police apprehended the driver within a few blocks of the crash.
It’s against the law to leave the scene of an accident when someone has been injured or killed. Under the law, all New York drivers must remain at the scene of the crash, exchange information, and notify the authorities. All New Yorkers have a duty of care to obey the law and not cause harm to others while driving. When a driver breaches this duty of care, they may be held accountable for the injuries, damages, and losses caused.
For example, if a driver breaches their duty of care by speeding, running through a red light, or driving while drunk, they can be held accountable for victim’s damages. Careless and reckless drivers can be held liable for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, the cost of rehabilitation services, and other related damages. When someone is killed in a New York car accident, the victim’s family can also pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost future wages, and other damages by filing a wrongful death claim.
Pursuing compensation after an accident becomes more complicated when the at-fault driver flees the scene of the crash. If the hit-and-run driver is caught, injured victims can hold them accountable with a personal injury claim. But, not all hit-and-run drivers get caught.
If your loved one has been killed by a hit-and-run driver, you may need guidance from a New York City car accident attorney who can help you pursue fair compensation for your significant losses.
Contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP to discuss your situation. You can reach us at (212) 986-7353.