On Nov. 7, a 47-year-old New York woman was killed and her 49-year-old husband injured when their car was struck by a Chevrolet Tahoe traveling the wrong way down South Lexington Avenue. According to reports, the Tahoe struck the car as it was crossing an intersection and pushed it approximately 200 feet down the avenue, trapping the occupants inside of the car. The woman was in the back seat folding newspapers while her husband was at the wheel.
The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband was taken to the hospital with reported internal and upper body injuries. The driver of the Tahoe, a 34-year-old New York firefighter, was off duty at the time of the crash. Authorities indicated that his blood alcohol level registered at .145 percent. Based on possible evidence in the firefighter’s car, investigators are trying to determine if the driver was under the influence of cocaine and MDMA as well.
The driver of the Tahoe was detained on charges of DWI and negligent homicide. He is also alleged to have been speeding. The firefighter was released on bail and has been suspended without pay from his job during the investigation.
In a situation where someone is killed in a car accident that occurred due to another person’s negligence, there may be cause to file a wrongful death suit independent of any criminal charges. Wrongful death petitions are filed in civil court and are intended to compensate the families of the deceased for both emotional and financial losses. The judge will consider the person’s role in the family, the number of dependents the person supported and the pain and suffering of the victim’s loved-ones. Consulting with an attorney who is well-versed in wrongful death claims may be a good source of guidance and support.
Source: NBC New York , Firefighter Charged in Deadly Wrong-Way Crash Being Tested for Drugs: Source”
