Car accident under investigation in New York

Local and state police are in the process of investigating a serious accident in the town of Kendall. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with New York State Police to determine the cause of the car accident. Details are limited at this time, but the investigation is well underway. 

According to the report, it appears the driver of a northbound vehicle did not yield the right-of-way to a westbound vehicle at a local intersection, which is marked by stop signs. The resulting collision caused at least one fatality. As of this report, the number of people injured and/or killed in the crash has not been verified, and police are not releasing further information until family members can be notified. 

Police believe foggy conditions could have played a role in the crash, as visibility was reduced in the area at the time of the accident. However, they have not ruled out negligent or reckless driving as possible causes as well. Neither local nor state police have filed any criminal charges at this time. 

New York State Police will continue to support local law enforcement in their investigation into this tragic car accident. If it can be determined that one or both drivers contributed materially to the crash, even taking into consideration inclement weather conditions, it is possible criminal charges will be filed. Separately, the injured parties and the families of the deceased are entitled under state law to file civil lawsuits for personal injury and wrongful death, as appropriate, in civil court against one or both drivers. 

Source: thedailynewsonline.com, “Fatal car accident in Kendall under investigation“, Jan. 22, 2017