The teen who was accused of causing an accident that took the life of a 46-year-old woman and injured a 14-year-old girl has died from his injuries, according to recent reports. The 16-year-old boy allegedly fled from police on Warburton Avenue in Yonkers in a stolen 1997 Dodge Ram vans with two other teens. He crashed into a woman’s car, killing her and leaving himself and one of his passengers in critical condition.
The chase began when the police received a report that people were trying to break into parking meters on Schroeder Street. They determined the van involved in the incident was stolen and began a pursuit. The van driver veered into oncoming traffic near the intersection with Harriman Avenue. The police chase was determined to have been allowable under departmental policy which permits chases when the suspect has committed a serious felony such as auto theft.
Police Chases and Lawsuits
Police chases are the subject of much debate. While they are sometimes necessary to apprehend criminals, they can also lead to serious injury for innocent bystanders. According to Pursuit Safety, a website dedicated to compiling facts about fleeing drivers and police chases, crashes that result from police chases kill more than one person on average every day in the United States. At least one-third of these victims are innocent bystanders who are not involved in the police chase.
These innocent bystanders may have the right to collect compensation, but it is highly improbable that they will without legal assistance. Police departments, cities and counties, and other governmental agencies usually claim immunity from wrongdoing when someone is injured in a police chase crash. It is up to the victim to stand up for his or her rights and take action to ensure that the medical bills are paid and that he or she recovers compensation to pay for other costs.
If you have been the victim of an accident related to a police chase, it is possible that you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. You may be entitled to payment for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages and other costs related to your accident. Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Fitzgerald Law Firm in New York and set up a free consultation to discuss your case. These attorneys can help you determine if you have a claim and will help you pursue it.