Male Pedestrian Killed In Collision With DeWitt Patrol Vehicle Along Bridge Street Near The 690 West Service Road
DEWITT, NEW YORK (May 1, 2024) – A male pedestrian has tragically died in a car accident with a DeWitt patrol vehicle along Bridge Street.
DeWitt police officials are saying that the collision took place on Monday night. A DeWitt patrol vehicle was responding to a call when it struck a pedestrian down in the roadway.
Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, the pedestrian died due to their injuries.
A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For DeWitt Police Accidents
A police department could be liable if one of their officers is involved in a fatal pedestrian collision. According to New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 1104(e), the drivers of authorized emergency vehicles have a duty to operate their vehicles with due regard for the safety of all persons. When an officer shows “reckless disregard” for the safety of others, they could be liable for an accident during a police pursuit. There are a number of factors that could contribute to an accident with a police vehicle.
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Reduced visibility
When a police officer is not responding to an emergency with their lights and sirens on, they are held to the same safe standard as all other drivers. According to New York Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1146(a), drivers must exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicyclists, and domestic animals in the roadway. When a police officer fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.
Investigating New York Police Accidents
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man who died in this DeWitt car accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. There needs to be some accountability for the sake of this man’s family.
Do you need more information about a DeWitt car accident? Our team of pedestrian accident attorneys is here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that accident victims get the support and justice that they are entitled to under the law. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
