Drunk Minivan Driver Hits Woman and Child in Brooklyn

According to the New York State Police, drunk drivers cause more than 17,000 deaths per year – and one injury every two minutes. A recent drunk driving crash in Brooklyn shows just how devastating these accidents can be, and the local community is calling for action. If you have been injured in a New York drunk driving crash, you can hold negligent drivers accountable with help from a lawyer.

Minivan Driver Attempts Drunken U-Turn Before Striking Woman and Child 

In September of 2024, authorities reported that a woman and child had suffered various injuries after being struck by a minivan driver. This individual is accused of driving while impaired, and he allegedly made a U-turn moments before impacting the two pedestrians.

The incident began when the driver veered off the road and struck two parked vehicles. He then abruptly swung his car around and attempted to head in the opposite direction – striking two pedestrians in the process. The child seems to have escaped with only minor injuries, but the 26-year-old female was rendered unconscious by the impact. First responders say she was unresponsive when they arrived, but the conditions of both victims eventually stabilized at a nearby hospital.

The driver was apprehended and charged with DWI and leaving the scene of an accident. Surveillance footage indicates that the front bumper of his vehicle was already damaged prior to crashing into the two parked cars. This suggests that the driver might have gone on a destructive, drunken spree throughout Brooklyn before finally coming to a stop.

Unfortunately, the minivan only came to a stop after rolling onto its side – crushing the driver in the process. A group of witnesses rushed over to lift the vehicle off the driver. They reported serious injuries for the driver – and one witness says that a liquor bottle fell out of the vehicle when she opened a door.

Police say that an investigation into this incident is ongoing, although it’s relatively clear who was at fault for these injuries. In this type of situation, victims of a drunk driver could potentially explore various options to cover their medical bills. These might include no-fault (PIP) insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits.

Key Takeaways

• 30% of all fatal crashes in New York are alcohol-related
• Drunk drivers face both criminal and civil consequences after causing injuries
• You may be able to file a wrongful death claim if a drunk driver kills your family

 Hold Drunk Drivers Accountable With a Brooklyn Accident Lawyer 

A New York auto accident lawyer may be able to help you hold intoxicated motorists accountable. Cohan Law, PLLC can guide you through this legal process – and we know how important compensation can be in these situations. An auto accident claim can cover your medical expenses, missed income, and many other damages. Reach out today to learn more about your legal options.

Sources: 

cbsnews.com/newyork/news/child-injured-brooklyn-hit-and-run/

troopers.ny.gov/impaired-driving#:~:text=Drunk%20drivers%20cause%20more%20than,minutes%20associate%20with%20drunk%20driving.