Drunk driving car accident leaves New York woman dead
Posted on October 6, 2015 in Car Accidents
It’s no secret that drinking and driving don’t mix. Yet, it’s an unfortunate reality that many New Yorkers continue to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. This puts not only the driver and other motorists at risk of harm, but also pedestrians. Even when a drunk driver is trying to be safe and avoid harm, he or she can cause a devastating car accident.
One of these auto accidents occurred recently in Setauket when a man accidentally ran over his ex-girlfriend. The victim had climbed out of the car at around 4 a.m., claiming the man was too drunk to drive. As she walked away, the driver tried to pull over to talk to her, but instead struck the woman, killing her. Though the driver helped emergency personnel attempt to save her life, the man was still taken into custody for DWI.
This instance illustrates just how damaging a drunk driving accident can be. While they can certainly be fatal, even those who survive the ordeal may never be the same again. Victims often suffer significant harm, which may include head, neck and brain injuries. In addition, victims may suffer emotional pain and suffering and they are often rendered unable to work. Medical bills, together with lost wages, can leave victims in a tight financial spot, magnifying the stress to which these individuals are subjected.
One of the best ways for an accident victim to hold drunk drivers accountable and recover much needed compensation is to file a personal injury lawsuit. An attorney can help a victim utilize evidence collected at the scene of the accident to show the driver was in fact intoxicated at the time of the accident. If the drunk driver’s negligence is shown by a preponderance of the evidence to have caused the victim’s injuries, then he or she may be awarded compensation. While this can certainly help a victim afford much needed medical care and help ease pain and suffering, it also sends the message to New Yorkers that drunk driving will not be tolerated.
Source: New York Post, “Man accidentally runs over ex in DWI crash,” Joe Tacopino, July 27, 2014