New York drivers are well aware of the city’s increased efforts to crack down on speeding and other actions. The Vision Zero plan states directly that the goal is to eliminate all pedestrian deaths. Some things like speeding have been identified as key contributors to these incidents. However, there are also other factors that can influence such accidents and leave drivers facing serious charges, such as driving while intoxicated.
A 33-year-old driver has recently been charged with multiple offenses after an accident in which he hit a pedestrian while driving his 2005 BMW. The pedestrian was reportedly walking in an intersection in Astoria at the corner of 44th Street and 25th Avenue early one evening on a weekday. He is noted to be an elderly man and after being hit was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Reports indicate that the vehicle’s driver originally tried to leave the location but was held and detained by several witnesses until police could arrive on the scene. He has since been charged with a hit-and-run and driving a vehicle without a license. It is also alleged that he was under the influence of drugs at the time of his arrest. In 2009, the same driver was convicted of drunk driving and in the prior year, he had a conviction for driving with a suspended license.
Drivers who are charged with traffic offenses like the above can be unsure of what to do. Discussing the situation with an experienced traffic attorney may be helpful and provide options for a defense.
Source: New York Daily News, “Driver who hit Queens man, 89, was on drugs, had prior DUI: police sources,” Thomas Tracy, October 22, 2014