Motor vehicle fatalities in New York have risen sharply since the pandemic, according to a recent report released by NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The report states that there were almost 1,200 traffic fatalities in 2022, which is the highest number recorded in a decade. This increase coincides with a decrease in vehicle miles traveled and traffic accidents. Top contributing factors to fatal accidents were driving under the influence and excessive speeds. The report also highlighted the major disparities in traffic fatalities by race and ethnicity, in 2022, minority drivers were disproportionately represented among traffic fatalities.
In the tragic situation where someone has died in a car accident, their loved ones may have a legal claim called a “wrongful death” lawsuit. Essentially, this means that someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions caused their loved one’s death, and they’re seeking compensation for the losses they’ve suffered as a result.
The person or parties responsible could vary. It might be the other driver if they were reckless or negligent, it could be a company if a faulty vehicle part contributed to the accident, or it could even be a government entity if poor road conditions played a role. In collisions resulting in a fatality it is critical to investigate thoroughly and identify all potentially responsible parties.
While no amount of money can truly replace a loved one, the compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit can help ease the financial burden and acknowledge the loss experienced.
- Loss of Financial Support: This includes the income the decedent would have earned over their lifetime, which would have contributed to their overall household.
- Loss of Services: This covers the value of the tasks the decedent performed around the house, such as childcare, cooking, or home maintenance.
- Medical and Funeral Expenses: Reimbursement for any medical bills incurred before the decedent passed away, as well as the costs of the funeral and burial.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensation recognizes the emotional distress and loss of companionship experienced due to the loss.
The legal process can be complex and lengthy, but at PainInjuryLaw.com, we’ll be with you every step of the way. We’ll gather evidence, consult experts, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take the case to trial. Our mission is to get the maximum possible recovery. It’s important to act quickly, as there are time limits (called “statutes of limitations”) for filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
