A tragic accident occurred on a recent Sunday morning when a young man was on his way to an engagement event. The car accident claimed the life of a 25-year-old Rabbi college student after he was hit by a garbage truck. New York authorities have not issued citations in this incident, but a wrongful death lawsuit in a civil court of law could be one avenue open for family members to pursue justice if they so desire.
The student was visiting the area for an engagement party. The accident reportedly happened when the student walked into the crosswalk. At the same time, a garbage truck was making a right turn and subsequently crashed into the student. When medical personnel arrived at the scene, the student was already deceased. Authorities also arrived at the scene and conducted a preliminary investigation.
Witness statements were obtained and authorities are in the midst of going over surveillance footage. The Mayor is determined to reduce or eliminate deadly accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists due to the high recent trends of these encounters – although unfortunately too late to save this particular student. Residents may see lower speed limits and increased space in parking lanes as part of these efforts to reduce such fatalities.
A deadly car accident is an unforeseeable and devastating event for New York families and loved ones. Depending on the outcome of this investigation, the driver of the garbage truck or the company for which he works may be held civilly liable for the student’s death. Even though a citation was not issued, family members of the deceased may wish to pursue a wrongful death claim against the driver and any separate owner of the truck. Doing so may provide some financial relief as the court deems appropriate while they grieve their loss.
Source: The New York Times, Garbage Truck Fatally Strikes Rabbinical Student in Brooklyn, Ashley Southall, Feb. 23, 2014
