In New York, the family of a man who was killed by an impaired driver while bicycling on Staten Island is planning to bring suit against the responsible party, according to news sources. In addition, the surviving family members are using the Internet in an attempt to raise $20,000 for the deceased man’s funeral. The accident that killed the 59-year-old bicyclist occurred on Feb. 16.
According to papers filed in court, the 52-year-old female motorist admitted that she had used marijuana prior to the deadly collision. Sources report that she has now been charged with driving while impaired and manslaughter. The charged woman is a resident of Staten Island and was married to a firefighter who died as the result of the incident that took place on Sept. 11, 2001.
In an earlier report, the driver’s lawyer told reporters that the woman was released on $10,000 bail and that she intended to mount a strong defense. One witness said that although the bicyclist was bleeding from a head wound, he was alert and coherent at the scene. He was subsequently transported to Staten Island University Hospital where he later died.
When New York City residents lose loved ones in car accidents caused by impaired or otherwise negligent driviers, they may be entitled to financial compensation regardless of the outcome of any criminal case that might result. An attorney who is well familiar with the wrongful death claim process may be able to help beneficiaries determine the full extent of their economic and other losses and maximize their compensation.
Source: New York Daily News, “Family Raising Money for Funeral of Staten Island Bike Victim Struck by Car,” Graham Rayman, Feb. 18, 2016
Source: New York Daily News, “Man, 59, killed while riding bicycle by stoned driver on Staten Island,” Ryan Sit, Graham Rayman, John Annese, Feb. 18, 2016