Two Women Struck in Fatal Brooklyn Pedestrian Accident

Fatal pedestrian accidents continue at a worrying pace in Brooklyn, and a recent incident has claimed the life of a senior woman. This fatality is just one of many that have occurred throughout the past few years. For many residents, injured pedestrians lying on the road has become a common sight. Worse still, motorists tend to flee these crash scenes without accepting responsibility. What can you do if you were injured as a pedestrian in Brooklyn?

Driver “Took Off Running” After Killing Senior in Brooklyn 

In May of 2024, ABC News reported that the driver of a blue Mazda struck two women in Brooklyn – killing one and severely injuring the other. Authorities later confirmed that this was a mother and daughter crossing at an intersection. The mother lost her life in the collision at the age of 71. Both women reportedly suffered “horrific injuries” in the crash.

Although the exact circumstances of the accident aren’t clear, police were “following” the driver of the Mazda moments beforehand for an alleged traffic infraction. After hitting the two pedestrians, the driver crashed into a van. He then exited the vehicle and fled on foot before police could apprehend him. Even with the use of police dogs, the authorities could not locate the individual.

Police were careful to note that they were not “pursuing” the Mazda but rather “following” the vehicle with their lights and sirens activated. Although it might seem like “following” and “pursuing” mean exactly the same thing, police were careful in their phrasing for a reason. The NYPD’s “pursuit policy” may ban police officers from triggering chases – especially after minor traffic infractions. Critics say that these police pursuits put average people in danger.

By stating that they were “following” the Mazda rather than “pursuing” it, NYPD officials may be trying to distance themselves from the pedestrian fatality. However, this could all be challenged in court. In past cases, families have successfully argued that police should bear responsibility for bystander deaths caused by pursuits. These lawsuits are especially likely if police violate their own written policies before triggering pursuits.

Of course, this isn’t the only way to pursue compensation after a fatal hit-and-run pedestrian accident in New York. If you want to pursue justice and compensation for your loved one, consult a wrongful death lawyer. These legal professionals may be able to identify other negligent parties.

 Key Takeaways 

• Pedestrian crashes seem to be especially common in Brooklyn
• Pedestrians face high fatality risks after being struck by vehicles
• Motorists often attempt to flee after killing pedestrians

Find an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Brooklyn 

An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Brooklyn can help you pursue justice and compensation for your injuries. Even if you cannot locate the motorist who caused your injuries, it may still be possible to cover your medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages. Contact the New York personal injury lawyers at Cohan Law, PLLC at your earliest convenience to discuss your next steps.

Sources: 

abc7ny.com/post/multiple-pedestrians-struck-by-vehicle-in-bushwick-brooklyn-police-say/14790525/

nyc.streetsblog.org/2023/08/30/the-nypd-and-its-main-watchdog-dont-want-you-to-know-the-official-policy-on-police-chases