SUV Driver Faces Manslaughter Charges After Fatal Bicycle Accident in Brooklyn
Cyclists face serious risks in Brooklyn, and each year we hear new stories about tragic bicycle accidents. Although the City claims to protect cyclists with various safety measures, these fatal crashes continue to occur at a worrying pace. The latest incident has claimed the life of a cyclist in his 40s, and it seems to have been caused by an impaired driver. How can we stop these accidents from happening in the future? More importantly, how can you recover compensation after a bicycle accident in Brooklyn?
“Out of Control” SUV Claims Life of Brooklyn Cyclist
In September of 2024, the New York Post reported that a cyclist had lost his life after being struck by an out-of-control SUV. Both the cyclist and the SUV were heading in the same direction down Union Avenue, and the vehicle seems to have rammed into the back of the cyclist at high speed. Images from the crash scene show a mangled bicycle with a completely destroyed rear section.
After this impact, the SUV veered into the back of a parked vehicle and completely demolished its rear section as well. Although the cyclist survived the initial impact, he eventually passed away at a nearby hospital. The crash also injured the SUV driver, but he remained in stable condition.
In the immediate aftermath of the accident, authorities did not report any arrests or criminal charges. However, they eventually announced that the SUV driver had been charged with vehicular manslaughter and various traffic offenses. This secondary report suggests that the SUV driver struck two parked vehicles before impacting the cyclist, and that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident.
Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Fatal Bicycle Accident
In a situation like this, it might be possible for family members to sue on behalf of their deceased cyclist. Intoxication is a clear example of negligence, and families may be able to hold negligent drivers accountable for causing fatal bike accidents.
A wrongful death lawsuit may be able to provide compensation for funeral expenses, ensuring an honorable final farewell. It may also cover unpaid medical treatments – including care your loved one received in the emergency room directly before passing away. Finally, a wrongful death lawsuit may be able to provide compensation for lost income that your loved one would have earned in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to drunk, reckless drivers
- Cyclists have been demanding improvements to bike lanes for years in Brooklyn
- You may be able to file a wrongful death claim after losing family to a fatal bike crash
Schedule Your Consultation with a Brooklyn Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
A consultation with a New York bicycle accident lawyer could pave the way for fair compensation. After an accident of this nature, you may have various options to cover your medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and other damages. Cohan Law, PLLC can also assist grieving family members with wrongful death claims after fatal accidents. To learn more about these legal options, book a consultation today.
Sources:
bkreader.com/in-other-brooklyn-news/brooklyn-resident-charged-with-vehicular-manslaughter-after-fatal-bicyclist-accident-9465494
bkreader.com/in-other-brooklyn-news/brooklyn-resident-charged-with-vehicular-manslaughter-after-fatal-bicyclist-accident-9465494
