Fatal New York DUI Accident: Police Officer Sentenced
An off-duty police officer in New Jersey was sentenced to 10 years in prison with the possibility of parole in three and a half years, for striking and killing a pedestrian who was crossing a street in Lower Manhattan. According to a news report, the woman died at the scene and her boyfriend was critically injured. The driver was reportedly driving double the speed limit and authorities have stated that he was under the influence at the time.
Of the approximate 9,000 car crashes in New York that occurred in 2008 and involved alcohol, 355 were fatal accidents. Of those 355 fatal accidents, 77 involved pedestrians. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts your life and others at great risk. Unfortunately, drunk driving in New York is a common cause of fatality and injury. Clearly the life of the abovementioned victim’s family will never be the same. Drunk driving is a no-win situation for everyone concerned, as seen in this particular case.
If you have been struck and injured by a drunk driver in New York, you may be able to seek compensation to cover medical expenses, hospitalization, rehabilitation, therapy and other costs associated with treating your injuries. If you have lost a loved one in an alcohol-related crash, you can file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party.
If you are a DUI accident victim in New York City, please call the New York drunk driving car accident lawyers at Wingate, Russotti and Shapiro LLP. We will provide a free evaluation of your case and will help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today to find out how we can help.
