In a recent case that has sparked outrage and debate, a driver responsible for a fatal crash in New York City will reportedly receive probation after completing a safety course, according to Streetsblog. This decision has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of current traffic safety measures and the need for stronger consequences to deter reckless driving.
The Incident & The Outcome
The case involves a driver who struck and killed a pedestrian. The tragedy has brought to light the critical issue of pedestrian safety and the consequences drivers face for their actions on the road. According to Streetsblog, the driver will not face jail time but will instead receive probation after completing a safety course. This outcome has been met with criticism from some safety advocates and some of the victim's family, who argue that it does not provide justice or adequately address the severity of the incident.
Why is Criminal Prosecution in New York for Vehicular Crimes Difficult
"There still is a reluctance by New York prosecutors to treat traffic deaths at the hands of motorists the same as a death committed by another instrumentality," said personal injury lawyer Daniel Flanzig. "The fear is that potential jurors view the action of the driver as a 'bad choice,' but not criminal in nature." License suspension and vehicular seizure is sometimes an option as a form of punishment. Flanzig continued, "It's hard to tell what acts better as a deterrent: jail or license suspension," Flanzig said. "In a city and state with car dependency, loss of license or vehicle forfeiture works well. “Seizing vehicles is exceptionally rare, except in cases where drivers have committed other crimes, such as drunk driving”.
The Need for Stronger Measures
This case highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to prevent traffic fatalities and hold drivers accountable. Safety courses and probation may not be sufficient to deter reckless behavior and ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users.
The decision to grant probation to a driver responsible for a fatal crash raises important questions about our commitment to traffic safety and the measures we are willing to take to protect lives. It is a stark reminder that we must do more to prevent such tragedies and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.
Why Choose Flanzig & Flanzig, LLP for Your Bicycle Accident Case
Pedestrian, e-scooter, and bicycle accidents can result in some of the most devastating injuries, such as amputations, severe road rash, and life-altering brain and spinal cord injuries. Victims of such accidents and crashes, caused by someone else's negligence, deserve rightful compensation outside the criminal system for their ongoing suffering and the impact on their lives.
At Flanzig & Flanzig, LLP, we're not just attorneys; we're passionate cyclists, pedestrians, and e-scooter riders and are staunch advocates for safer streets. Our team of accident and crash lawyers is equipped with the expertise and courtroom experience needed to secure full compensation for our clients. Both partners in our firm boast over 27 years of trial experience, and we are wholly dedicated to representing fellow cyclists like you.
If you've been involved in a bicycle, pedestrian, e-bike, e-scooter crash, or accident, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Flanzig & Flanzig, LLP by calling 866-352-6944.