Drinking and then deciding that it's OK to get behind the wheel of a vehicle is always a terrible decision that can lead to serious harm for anyone.  While some people are extremely skilled when it comes to handling themselves on the roads, the unfortunate fact is that no one is immune to the risks posed by those who choose to drink and drive.  Sadly, even an off-duty police officer can be seriously harmed by this crime, as such a person was critically injured in a suspected Buffalo DUI accident.

According to authorities, this suspected Buffalo DUI accident occurred at 2:15 a.m. yesterday when Anthony Thompson, 22, of Buffalo was driving with four passengers in an eastbound direction on Ferry Street.  As he approached the intersection with Main Street, he allegedly ran a red light and smashed into a vehicle being driven by 30-year-old Gary D. Sengbusch, an off-duty police officer.  The officer was critically injured and is fighting for his life.  Thompson has since been arrested on suspicion of DUI.

New York Car Accident Statistics

First and foremost, we'd like to offer our most earnest hope that the officer who was injured in this suspected Buffalo DUI accident is able to survive the harm that he has suffered through no fault of his own and return to his normal life as quickly as possible.  In addition, this crash will now become part of the overall statistics regarding New York car accidents.  Every year, more than 187,000 people are injured and another 1,200 people are killed in these occurrences.

New York DUI Accident Lawyers

In addition to what will most likely be a slew of criminal charges filed against him, the driver who was arrested could also face the prospect of being named a defendant in a New York personal injury lawsuit.  If such a lawsuit is filed and is successful, it could lead to an award of damages that compensates the officer for his medical costs, his lost income and his pain and suffering. 

If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver, you need to seek the help of New York DUI accident lawyers who have been holding those responsible for this type of harm accountable for 40 years.  Contact Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald today to schedule a free initial consultation.