Woman injured in car accident while saving niece

A woman bravely risked her life for that of her young niece in Queens on Dec. 13, according to local sources. The 21-year-old woman is in critical condition following the car accident that nearly involved her 5-year-old niece. The driver of the sports car involved in the accident has been charged with leaving the scene and driving without a license, though further charges may be pending per the New York police investigation. 

Witnesses report seeing the white sports car driving at a high rate of speed, ostensibly trying to beat a red light, when the accident occurred. The 21-year-old had just entered the street with her niece but pushed the little girl out of the way of the oncoming vehicle. The woman was struck by the car, which witnesses say then sped off. She was rushed to a local hospital with critical injuries. 

Police caught up with the driver several blocks away, who told police that a friend had been driving, though no one was in the vehicle with him. He has initially been charged with fleeing the scene of an accident and driving with a suspended license. Police have not ruled out further charges if evidence of recklessness is determined. 

Even if police do not pursue criminal charges against the driver involved in this car accident, the injured woman and her family are entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit against him. Evidence seems to exist of recklessness on his part, which can be used to support a civil case of this type. The case would be overseen by a New York civil court which would determine if damages are to be awarded. 

Source: New York Post, “Aunt struck after saving niece from speeding car’s path“, Frank Rosario, Larry Celona and Tina Moore, Dec. 13, 2015