Electric Amazon Truck Accident Reported By The Intersection of First Avenue and East 17th Street In Gramercy Park
GRAMERCY PARK, NEW YORK (June 29, 2023) – An 18-year-old bicyclist was killed in a Gramercy Park Amazon truck accident by First Avenue and East 17th Street.
New York City police officials are saying that the accident took place on Friday afternoon. The teenage cyclist was riding down the street when he was hit by the Amazon truck.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures the cyclist died due to the severity of their injuries.
Eye witnesses said that the Amazon truck driver was visibly distraught. A full investigation into the Gramercy Park collision remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Amazon Truck Accidents
Amazon has continued to grow in size each years thanks in part to its large distribution network and speedy deliveries. But the speed and efficiency Amazon is known for has also come at a great cost. Many people have been killed or seriously injured with these vehicles. The company’s new fleet of electric vehicles have been particularly worrisome. Many pedestrians and bicyclists don’t hear them until its too late. There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to an Amazon truck accident.
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Driver intoxication
- Inadequate driver training
Amazon hires its delivery drivers as “independent contractors.” This is done in part to evade liability for collisions. According to one report in the NY Times, “The retail giant directs the destinations, deadlines and routes for its network of contract delivery drivers. But when they crash, Amazon is held harmless.” Still, Amazon truck drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians in the roadway. Pursuant to New York Vehicle Code 1146, all drivers must exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicyclists and domestic animals in the roadway. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any collision.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
It is important that accident victims know that they do have rights. The family of any person that is killed in a car accident may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover many of the expenses that can come with the sudden loss of a loved one. Sadly, though, Amazon and its contractors will often fight hard to deny liability for any collision.
Investigating New York City Car Accidents
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of the bicyclist killed in this Amazon truck accident. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Do you need more information about a Gramercy Park Amazon truck accident? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of bicycle safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free investigation into any collision we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.