2 drivers dead following New York car accident

Two drivers were tragically killed in an unlikely crash in early February. New York State Police were in the midst of responding to a car accident when a second crash claimed the lives of both drivers involved in the first collision. So far, no charges have been filed against anyone involved. 

Apparently two drivers from a neighboring state got into a minor car accident while traveling northbound on Interstate 95. The drivers, one male and one female, had exited their vehicles to survey damage and were on the side of the highway awaiting emergency services. At this point, a third vehicle, being driven by a 46-year-old New York resident, apparently lost control and struck both parked vehicles. 

Sadly, he also struck their drivers, killing both instantly. He himself suffered minor injuries in the crash and was taken to a local hospital. Police and emergency services are still trying to determine what caused the man to lose control of his vehicle, and they have not ruled out recklessness, negligence or intoxication at this time. So far, they have not filed charges against the man responsible, but this could change as the investigation proceeds. 

Should New York authorities find reason to believe the man may have been responsible for the car accident, it is possible he could face criminal charges and even be convicted in this case. In cases such as this one, even if no criminal charges are filed, evidence of negligence may be enough for victims’ families to file successful wrongful death lawsuits against negligent drivers and any other owners of their vehicles. While evidence is required, these filings are considered civil and are, therefore, not part of the criminal system. 

Source: wtnh.com, “SCSU cheerleader among 2 CT drivers killed in Rye, N.Y. crash“, Jesse Gosselin, Feb. 4, 2015