People in New York who have been injured in a car accident in which another party is at fault have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. Likewise, the family members of someone who is killed as a result of a negligent driver’s actions can seek to contact an accident attorney in New York to learn how they might be compensated for the loss of their loved one.
This is the situation that a family in Saugerties, New York, may find itself in — if, that is, the person at fault can be located. Early last week, police there were called to the scene of a hit-and-run accident in the Town of Saugerties. The victim, a 19-year-old man who had been riding a bicycle, was pronounced dead as a result of the injuries he suffered in the crash.
For a free legal consultation, call (212) 540-2981
Unfortunately, the vehicle and driver at fault left the scene before police arrived. The 911 call came in at about 7:30 in the evening, so it is possible that there were witnesses to the crash who may yet come forward. Until that time, however, police are searching for answers and a grieving family is trying to adjust to life.
Obviously, it is of critical importance to find the motorist who caused this terrible tragedy. Collisions between people on bicycles and motor vehicles rarely end well for the bicyclist. In any case, he or she may ultimately be held accountable for the young man’s death.
One important note: Even in a hit-and-run situation, there is always coverage. First, there is a provision in a home vehicle auto policy called “Uninsured Motorist Coverage” which will provide coverage if there is no insurance on the other vehicle. If there is no home policy, then in New York State the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation provides minimum coverage to uninsured accident victims so long as the accident is reported to the local police within 24 hours.
Source: Saugerties Times, “19-year-old bicyclist killed in car accident,” Oct. 15, 2013
Call or text (212) 540-2981 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form