New York car accident involving pedestrian results in fatality

Sidewalks are a wonderful addition to neighborhoods and major city roadways. Pedestrians using them can, in theory, safely walk from place to place. They should be able to do so without fear of injury. However, the negligent acts of drivers can sometimes create fear even for those who are safely out of the road. For example, police say that a woman in New York caused a car accident that killed an 8-year-old child who was on a sidewalk at the time.

The accident happened near a New York school. Police report that a car driven by a 55-year-old woman jumped a curb, striking a group including four women and two children — an 8-year-old and a 9-year-old. The younger child died as a result of the injuries she suffered.

It is unclear what may have caused the accident. Some witnesses say the woman was driving in reverse at the time and may have hit the the gas instead of the brake. It is unclear at this time if criminal charges will be filed. The extent of the injuries the other victims suffered was not disclosed.

It is difficult to imagine the devastation the family of the young girl is likely experiencing as they struggle to come to terms with the death of their daughter. Unfortunately, those suffering from such a loss must also cope with the unexpected financial ramifications, including funeral expenses. Many people who have lost a loved one in a car accident such as this have filed a wrongful death case in a New York civil court. In some of the cases where it was proved that a person’s death was the result of another’s negligence, monetary damages were awarded.

Source: CBS New York, “Child Dead After Vehicle Hits Pedestrians In Bronx“, Oct. 24, 2014