The 4th of July weekend is one that's filled with celebrations, relaxation and time with family and friends.  Unfortunately, it's also a time when too many people make the always-bad decision to drink and then to get behind the wheel of a vehicle.  Apparently, this appears to be what police are alleging after a suspected New York DUI accident took place in the early morning hours of Monday that left the drivers of both vehicles in critical condition.

According to police, this suspected New York DUI accident took place just after 6 a.m. when Dave Richards, 30, of Hempstead, Long Island was driving his Mercedes in the wrong direction on the Long Island Expressway near the Utopia Parkway at Exit 25.  As a result, his vehicle slammed into a shuttle van head-on that was being driven by John Rey, 64, of Greenlawn.  Immediately after the crash, both vehicles burst into flames and both drivers had to be rescued.  Both were sent to the hospital in critical condition, and the blood alcohol content of Mr. Richards was measured at 0.19, which is more than twice the legal limit in New York.  Mr. Richards has since been charged with reckless endangerment and driving while intoxicated and with a suspended license.

New York Car Accident Statistics

First, we'd like to extend our hopes that both people who were injured are able to recover from their injuries, and both were fortunate to survive such a horrific crash.  Additionally, this latest suspected New York DUI accident will only add to the total statistics that are kept in this regard.  Every year in New York, more than 300,000 car accidents take place, leading to almost 200,000 injuries and more than 1,200 deaths.  Of those New York car accidents, almost 9,000 list alcohol as a contributing factor, and these crashes lead to almost 5,000 injuries and more than 150 deaths.

New York DUI Accident Lawyers

Clearly, Mr. Richards will face significant scrutiny from the District Attorney.  In addition, it's possible that Mr. Rey could file a New York personal injury lawsuit.  If the claim proves successful, Mr. Rey could be awarded damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost income depending on the specifics of the case.  If you or someone you love has been harmed in such an incident, you need the help of New York car accident lawyers who have been holding drunk drivers accountable for the injuries they've caused for nearly 40 years.  Contact Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald today to schedule a free initial consultation. 

Hiring a New York Auto Accident Lawyer

The Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald auto accident and personal injury law firm is not currently representing anyone mentioned in this article at the time it was posted. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your legal rights and options, call us or another well recognized and respected personal injury law firm. Please do not rely or act solely upon the information provided in this article. Please consider getting a consultation immediately. The best personal injury law firms will provide a free consultation. Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald will provide a free, confidential consultation to the persons who were not at fault named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.