Drunk Driver Causes Deadly Accident on Long Island

A drunk driver reportedly struck a vehicle carrying a family of four from St. Albans, killing the 37-year-old father, eight-year-old son and four-year-old daughter. The accident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 23 in Bay Shore on the Southern State Parkway.

According to police, the mother, who was sitting in the front passenger seat, was able to get out of the family’s Toyota after the impact, but was unable to rescue her husband and children, who were trapped inside when the car went up in flames. The 24-year-old driver of the BMW was charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) and leaving the scene of an accident.

Because the crash resulted in several deaths and the driver left the scene, he likely faces some significant consequences for his actions. Leaving the scene of an accident is considered a felony, as is DWI causing death. As a result, it is very likely the driver will be given a sentence that includes a lengthy prison term and a hefty fine, among other possible penalties.

Dangers of drunk driving crashes

The mother and the rest of her extended family hope the tragedy helps to raise some greater awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and how it has the potential to claim multiple lives in an instant. There is no word as to whether she intends to file a civil suit against the driver. If she did, the alleged drunk driver would likely be considered liable for the crash, especially if he ends up being convicted of the DWI charge against him.

For more information on how to proceed with civil action after the personal injury or wrongful death to you or a loved one, speak with a dedicated Long Island attorney at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP.