Legal protections are available for victims of negligent drivers and their families. A fatal car accident in Brooklyn recently claimed the life of one man and injured two others. The accident occurred when a SUV travelling the wrong direction collided with another vehicle. A 27-year old passenger in the vehicle that was hit by the wrong-way driver was killed in the accident. Another passenger, a 29-year old woman, was injured, and the driver of the vehicle that was struck, a 20-year old man, was also injured in the car accident. Both were taken to local hospitals for medical treatment.
The 50-year old wrong-way driver has been charged with manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, three counts of vehicular assault, driving while intoxicated and driving while ability impaired. In addition to criminal consequences that drivers may sometimes face, they may also face civil consequences through a personal injury claim for damages brought by victims or their families. In many instances, the criminal charges may be used as evidence of negligence.
When a negligent driver has wrongfully caused death or injury, they may be liable to compensate injured victims or family members of victims wrongfully killed for the physical, financial and emotional damages they have suffered. Following a motor vehicle accident, a personal injury claim for damages may be brought to recover medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering damages or a wrongful death claim for damages may be brought to recover compensation for medical and funeral expenses, loss of support and services and other damages as well.
Knowing how to respond when harmed by a negligent driver is important for victims and their families. They should be familiar with the legal options and protections available to them during a difficult time.