More of the same for pedestrians on the increasingly dangerous streets of New York City. New York City was once widely regarded as a place you needed to have your head on a swivel at all times because of its fast pace and violent reputation. That was the ’80’s and 90’s, when gangs, drug dealers and organized crime scared tourists away and made locals wary as they navigated their way through the city. Strollers have replaced shell casings and empty vials no longer line the curbs of city streets. New York City is thriving, perhaps like no other time. But there is still a very real threat looming.
Who is the most dangerous threat in 21st century New York?
It’s no longer the gangs, the drug dealers and definitely not organized crime. It’s the drivers. That’s right, the drivers, and something has to change. Today, the most dangerous thing you can do in New York, it seems, is cross the street — even with the right of way — or casually walk on the sidewalk. Pedestrians continue to be mowed down by reckless drivers who show little or no regard to the rules of the road. The mayor’s ‘Vision Zero’ plan aims to eviscerate traffic related fatalities. This ambitious plan continues to sputter, taking one step forward and two steps back. Yesterday was another sad reminder of how far we have to go.
On February 4, 2014, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Kamil Gorski (a former Marine), of San Marcos, California, was crossing the street at Metropolitan Avenue and 62nd Street in the Ridgewood section of Queens, when he was struck by a white van that fled the scene. The victim was struck by a second car while he was lying helplessly on the roadway. The driver of the second car remained at the scene.
The victim suffered severe head trauma and was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. According to authorities, the driver of the first car was arrested and charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.
The grief and pain experienced by the victim and those that loved him must be overwhelming. They are surely facing with fear, uncertainty, sorrow and pain. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they try to make sense of this loss.
The immediate aftermath of such a crash is an extremely difficult and trying time for a victim and their family. It is also important for them to protect their rights as early as possible. Block O’Toole & Murphy is committed to aiding victims and their families during these very difficult times. We help families and victims protect their legal rights and recover after tragic accidents. Our clients appreciate the care, attention, sensitivity and expertise we bring to their cases. Block O’Toole & Murphy works not only to maximize our clients’ recovery under the law but to bring comfort, support and relief to their sad stories.
The attorneys at Block O’Toole & Murphy, LLP are available for a free consultation at 212-736-5300. You can also learn more about the firm by visiting the firm’s website at blockotoole.com.
Sources:
DNA Info
Newsday
NY Daily News