New York’s streets and highways pose a challenge to any driver, but when someone’s ability to operate a vehicle is compromised for one reason or another, they create a serious danger for themselves and others. In addition to alcohol, drugs, distractions and drowsiness, people should be honest with themselves about deteriorating skills behind the wheel and avoid driving altogether if they’re at risk for a serious medical episode.
While the exact cause of a serious Brooklyn car accident was not clear at the time, there were indications that an 89-year-old motorist experienced a sudden medical crisis. On the evening of April 10, he lost control of his car on 76th Street and 18th Avenue in Bensonhurst, striking a parked car, a man riding a scooter and a pedestrian.
Though many older adults remain capable of driving safely, age-related health issues can sometimes interfere with their ability to react quickly and make sound decisions behind the wheel. Heart attacks, strokes, diabetic shock and other sudden medical problems are more common in older individuals. Even a temporary loss of awareness could trigger a vehicle collision that causes major injuries or fatalities.
Accidents caused by medical episodes can result in liability for the driver or their estate, particularly if their condition was known but not managed. In cases where victims are injured, victims may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the first step you should take is to retain an experienced New York auto accident attorney who can investigate to find out exactly what caused the crash.
Often, the police report describing a vehicle collision will not have all of the relevant information. Law enforcement personnel are very busy and focused on making sure everything at the scene is safe. At Goldberg Sager & Associates in Brooklyn, we examine physical evidence, conduct witness depositions, review medical records and work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary to determine what contributed auto accidents where clients where hurt. From there, we seek to hold the liable parties accountable and maximize the compensation that victims receive in a verdict or settlement.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, please call 718-645-6677 or contact us online for a free consultation. We serve clients from Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, The Bronx and Staten Island, as well as Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties.
