Fatal Construction Site Accident on Myrtle Avenue Highlights Dangers of Reckless Driving in Brooklyn

A devastating accident on Myrtle Avenue in Bedford-Stuyvesant serves as a harsh reminder of the life-threatening risks faced by construction workers who work hard to ensure our city’s development. On October 29, 2024, a 37-year-old construction flagger, Luis Mario Sangurima, lost his life after being struck by a driver recklessly navigating around a box truck. Sangurima was directing traffic near a construction site when he was hit by a speeding van that crossed into oncoming traffic, underscoring the perils that flaggers and construction site workers face daily on Brooklyn’s streets.

The driver, Clyde Mercury, reportedly attempted to bypass a slow-moving truck by veering into the opposite lane. This act of impatience led to a fatal outcome, with Mercury now facing charges of criminally negligent homicide, reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and failure to exercise due care. As Brooklyn personal injury attorneys, we see the dire consequences that arise when drivers ignore traffic rules and fail to respect construction zones. Tragedies like this are preventable when drivers are responsible and follow basic safety protocols around construction areas.

Construction zones, especially in busy urban areas like Brooklyn, require vigilant attention from both drivers and workers. Often, flaggers like Sangurima are the first line of defense for work crews, directing traffic to protect colleagues and pedestrians. By donning reflective gear and guiding vehicles past narrow lanes, they ensure the safety of everyone around the construction site. However, when drivers disregard these signals and attempt dangerous maneuvers, they put lives at risk.

In New York, criminal charges like those facing Mercury highlight the legal consequences of reckless driving. Additionally, civil remedies are often available to families impacted by such negligence. Surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for the emotional and financial burdens left in the wake of a loved one’s untimely death. Such claims also serve a broader purpose: they hold negligent parties accountable and work toward safer conditions for all.

Our firm has dedicated years to fighting for families in Brooklyn and across New York City who have lost loved ones to reckless actions. We know the immense pain these families endure and are committed to providing compassionate, aggressive legal representation to ensure their voices are heard. When tragedies strike, they deserve not only answers but also justice.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed due to a negligent driver, it’s essential to seek legal guidance. With over a century of experience handling high-stakes personal injury cases, our team is here to support you through this difficult time. We understand the complexities of these cases and the importance of a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served. Reach out to us at 212-943-1090 to discuss your options and learn more about how we can assist you in your pursuit of justice and compensation.